My son, G, is starting first grade on Wednesday, and we’re all ready.
It was super easy this year actually.
This year, I feel kind of like a veteran at this back to school thing.
It only took me two phone calls to get the drop off and pick up schedule set. (Last year, I think it took me at least two weeks.) And I’ve already loaded all the vacation and early release days in my calendar.
Of course, it also helps that G is a very adaptable little boy. I don’t need to worry about him not adjusting well. He had a great time in kindergarten last year and was crushed when it was over. Then, he went to summer playground (camp) and had a ball.
Despite reading about G’s assigned teacher’s leave of absence in the local newspaper, I managed to meet his newly hired teacher at the drop-in event at his school last week. She sent a letter out within days that included a simple supply list, which we purchased for less than $5.00. (I’m guessing this price will go up as he gets older.)
I learned my lesson last year and spent my money on the two most essential supplies for school – the backpack and the lunch bag. I went cheap and cute last year for these items. Both were destroyed by the end of the year. We went with an LL Bean backpack and a super cool bento lunch box from Laptop Lunches. I spent more money, but these items will last longer, are more eco-friendly (affiliate link) and backed by a lifetime guarantee.
G has been growing ridiculously fast, so I’m not worrying about a new wardrobe for school. We buy clothes and shoes every few months, when he needs them. If I buy too much of anything at once, he’ll grow out of it or the season will change. Plus, boys are easy when it comes to dressing. A couple pairs of sneakers, sandals or boots (depending on the season), jeans, khakis, some t-shirts, lots of socks and underwear. You’re pretty much good to go.
Sometimes I wonder why people make such a big deal about the whole back to school thing. G and I say bring it on.

How do you handle back to school shopping?