Let’s face it, getting ready for the new school year is a hectic time for most families. It’s a combination of end-of-summer blues, following new schedules and preparing for the unknown that makes it so stressful. That’s why it’s important to create a game plan now. By being proactive, you can make that stress disappear and get ahead of the back-to-school to-do list.

1. Set Family Tasks

Now is a great time to start thinking about making a game plan. How are you going to get through the first four weeks? Start by setting some goals for your kids, like having homework completed by the same time every day and school bags packed each night. Don’t forget to give rewards for good behavior.

The game plan isn’t just for you, it’s for the whole family. Remember, you’re a team and the team always works together. Designate which family member will take part in what task, like who is making breakfast and who is making lunches. Assign everyone something to do. It won’t take long before a routine is formed and things get easier.

2. Start the Schedule Over the Summer

It’s safe to say that most kids sleep in during the summer, and then when September rolls around they suddenly have to be up at 7 a.m. (or earlier) to make it to school on time. This can be a big challenge for families. If you schedule daily activities for your child throughout the whole summer vacation, they will find it easier to adjust to a schedule when school starts.

Another daily goal is to set a time for the whole family to get up a little earlier a few weeks before school so the kids (and you) get used to the early wake-ups and start times. Throw some incentives into the plan and include a favorite destination so the kids are motivated to get up and leave. When the new school year starts up, the kids will be used to getting up early and it won’t be so difficult.

3. Buy School Supplies Early

When it comes to shopping for school supplies and back-to-school wardrobes, it’s better to not wait until the last minute. Parents should incorporate back-to-school shopping into the game plan and in turn, and kids should communicate what they need for school.

Shopping online for back-to-school clothes and classroom essentials is a quick and easy way to get everything you need without having to drive all over town. Saving gas, time and money is always a good game plan.

4. Set Up a Homework Station

You and your child should set up a homework station a few weeks before class starts to be proactive. Make sure there’s a desk or table they can use to do homework and study for tests. If the walls are bare, consider painting them, adding posters or a chalkboard. Setting it up together and giving it new life helps them connect with the study space.

Summer fun is always important for kids, but being proactive and forming a back-to-school game plan early on is just as important. It reduces stress in the long run and helps the family adjust to new situations.