Back to School Shopping

One question that comes to mind a lot with many parents is what to buy when children head back to school. Here are some tips:

1)Supplies- Unless requested by the teacher avoid bulky binders, they never fit in a desk and as the rings get loose it turns into a big mess. Spirals and clip folders work well along with standard composition books. When dealing with pens and pencils, if there are 10 in a pack send your child in with 4 and keep the rest in reserve. Avoid supplies that may create a distraction. Many schools make their supply lists availble before the school year begins so try to get a hold of the list

2) Clothes- You definitely want to avoid a phone call from the school office because your child is in violation of dress code. Students should be dressed for learning not a fashion show. Items like ripped jeans, pocket chains, things with spikes, sleeveless shirts and backless shoes are usually prohibited. Students also need to wear their pants at their waste, school is not the place to show off their underwear. Shirts should cover the torso and skirts should be longer than mid-thigh. While Crocs are not considered a backless shoe, I don't think it is a smart footwear choice for school based on the risk of tripping and falling if some steps on the shoes back.

3) Cell phones are very useful communication devices but they need to be off and out of site during class so they do not distract learning. If your are giving your child a phone to keep on them make sure they understand the school policies governing their use on campus to avoid confiscation.

Hope these few tips are useful.