Most schools will send a list of supplies your child will need in the mail. You can spread out the cost associated with back to school purchases by starting to buy pens, pencils, paper and necessary books earlier in the summer. If you buy a few things each week, it won't take such a chunk out of your budget. Save the new clothes for last, though, and let your child pick out one special outfit for the first day of school. This will help them get excited about the “big day”.

If your child is old enough to need a backpack, remember that children suffer painful back injuries each year due to overloaded and poorly designed backpacks. Purchase one with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Make sure your child always uses both straps and puts the heaviest items closest to the center of the back. A rolling backpack can be a good choice for students who have heavy loads to carry.

It's Your Transition, Too

Don't forget you will soon have extra work to do as well. If the school sent home information sheets for you to fill out, don't wait until the last minute to do it. Take the time to write down important dates like early-release days and holidays on your calendar. Set aside a folder or special place for important school papers so you can find them when you need them. Make sure you get used to rising in plenty of time to get your child ready without rushing. Each school year is a clean slate for your child. Don't bring up negative things that happened last year. If you are cheerful and confident about the coming year, your child will be too.