5 Tips to Start the School Year Right

Depending upon where you live in the country, school has already started or will soon begin. You’ve probably already bought new school supplies and clothes to take advantage of all the great back-to-school sales. Be sure to buy extra for later in the year as well!

Here are 5 tips to help the new school year be a success.

1. Establish a Routine Early

Get back into the school groove by setting regular times for waking up, doing homework, eating dinner, and heading to bed. Starting this routine a few weeks before the first day can ease the transition and make those early mornings less hectic.

2. Use a Shared Family Calendar

A digital calendar, like Google Calendar, is a great way to keep track of everyone's commitments. Set up color-coded calendars for each family member and share them across devices. Include school events, practices, appointments, and deadlines—all in one place.

3. Prioritize Healthy Eating

Busy schedules don’t have to mean unhealthy meals. Stock your kitchen with easy, nutritious options like yogurt, cut fruit, trail mix, and cheese sticks. These make great grab-and-go snacks for mornings and after school.

4. Create a Homework-Friendly Space

Designate a quiet, clutter-free area where your child can focus. Keep essentials like pencils, chargers, and paper handy, and limit distractions—turn off TVs and silence devices during homework time.

5. Stay Involved

Take an active role in your child’s school life. Ask open-ended questions like, “What are you excited to learn this year?” instead of the usual “How was school?” Attend orientations, support extracurriculars, and volunteer if you can—it shows your child that learning matters.

In addition, don’t forget about insurance. Ask your agent about “scheduling” coverage for higher value items that travel to school, such as musical instruments. This can provide broader coverage and specified dollar amounts per item. If you have a college student, your homeowners’ coverage should extend to cover property at school, but it’s a good idea to check your policy to be sure.