How Many Days Until The First Day of School?
This countdown is for a typical back-to-school date (August 25).
Actual school start dates vary by district/country.
Preparing for Back to School
The first day of school marks the beginning of new opportunities for learning and growth. Being well-prepared can help students start the school year with confidence and excitement.
Back-to-School Timeline
Early Preparation
- Check school supply lists and begin shopping
- Schedule medical check-ups and required vaccinations
- Update school records if you've moved
- Organize closet and determine clothing needs
Transition Period
- Begin adjusting sleep schedules (15 minutes earlier each day)
- Finish school supply shopping
- Set up a homework/study area at home
- Review summer assignments or reading
Final Preparations
- Attend orientation or meet-the-teacher events
- Set up a family calendar with activities and deadlines
- Practice school-day routines (waking up, making lunch, etc.)
- Pack backpack and prepare first-day outfit
Ready, Set, Go!
- Pack lunch or prepare lunch money
- Set multiple alarms for wake-up time
- Charge electronic devices
- Go to bed early for a good night's sleep
Back-to-School Shopping Checklist
Essential School Supplies
Clothing & Accessories
Technology & Electronics
Money-Saving Shopping Tips
Compare Prices
Use price comparison apps and websites to find the best deals on school supplies and electronics.
Tax-Free Weekends
Many states offer tax-free shopping days for back-to-school items, usually in late July or early August.
Reuse When Possible
Check last year's supplies before buying new. Many items like backpacks, rulers, and calculators can be reused.
Bulk Buying
Partner with other parents to buy supplies in bulk, which often results in significant savings on common items.
Tips for a Successful School Year
Establish Routines
Create consistent morning and evening routines with picture charts for younger children.
Role Play
Practice potential school situations like making friends, asking for help, or handling conflicts.
Reading Habits
Read together for 15-20 minutes daily, taking turns and discussing the story.
Positive Goodbyes
Create a special goodbye ritual for drop-off to ease separation anxiety.
Organization Skills
Use color-coded folders for different subjects and teach how to use a planner or digital calendar.
Encourage Self-Advocacy
Practice scenarios where students need to speak up for themselves with teachers or peers.
Time Management
Break down assignments into smaller tasks with specific timeframes to complete each part.
Study Techniques
Introduce different study methods like flashcards, mind maps, and practice quizzes to find what works best.
Goal Setting
Help set specific, measurable academic and personal goals for the semester and school year.
Balance Activities
Find a healthy balance between academics, extracurriculars, social life, and rest.
Future Planning
Start exploring college or career interests and related preparation steps.
Stress Management
Teach healthy coping strategies for academic pressure, including mindfulness techniques.
Budget Management
Create a realistic budget for the semester, tracking expenses for textbooks, supplies, food, and entertainment.
Connect Early
Attend orientation events, join study groups, and participate in campus activities to build your network.
Use Resources
Familiarize yourself with campus resources like tutoring centers, writing labs, and counseling services.
Career Preparation
Visit the career center early to explore internships, part-time jobs, and resume-building opportunities.
First Day Survival Guide
For Students
- Be prepared: Lay out clothes and pack your backpack the night before
- Eat breakfast: Start the day with protein and complex carbs for sustained energy
- Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to locate your classroom or locker
- Be open: Sit somewhere new at lunch and introduce yourself to at least one person
- Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask for help if you get lost or confused
- Be positive: Keep an open mind and a positive attitude about new experiences
For Parents
- Take photos: Capture the first-day milestone before leaving home
- Keep goodbyes short: Brief, positive farewells are easier on everyone
- Control emotions: Save your tears for after you're out of sight
- Be on time: For both drop-off and pick-up to reduce anxiety
- Create space: Allow your child to share about their day without interrogating
- Celebrate: Plan a special dinner or treat to celebrate the first day
Did You Know? Back-to-School Facts
Americans spend approximately $83 billion on back-to-school shopping annually, making it the second-largest consumer spending event after the winter holidays.
The concept of summer break originated in the 19th century when schools in rural areas would close so children could help with farming, not because it was too hot for school as many believe.
The iconic yellow color of school buses was officially adopted in 1939 because it's highly visible in dawn and dusk lighting, when students are most often transported.
Students who eat breakfast perform better academically, with studies showing improvements in memory, attention, and problem-solving skills compared to those who skip morning meals.