The back-to-school season can be a stressful time for both kids and parents, but it doesn’t have to be. The best way to enjoy a smooth transition is to be prepared. Get set with these tips.

The new school year can sneak up on you. One day, you’re just getting into the swing of summer. The next day, it’s time to start thinking about sending the kids off to school. Don’t leave yourself with a last-minute scramble to get everything and everyone ready. By taking care of the essentials ahead of time, you’ll be cruising on the first day.

1. Go for All Your Checkups

Before the hectic school year begins, go for all your family check-ups. This includes visiting the doctor, the dentist, and the optometrist. Respiratory viruses can make the rounds at the beginning of the school year, so it’s best to make sure everyone is healthy before going in. Dental problems are also very common in childhood and regular checkups make sure they don’t go undiagnosed. Getting your child’s eyes checked is particularly important, as vision problems can impact their school performance.

2. Organize Clothes and Shoes

When you’re scrambling to get your kids or even yourself ready on a school day, the last thing you want to do is wonder where that sweater or pair of shoes is. Set aside some time to dive into everyone’s closets and get organized. Donate clothing that no one wears anymore and make sure that items you need are easily accessible. A shoe rack in the entryway, if you don’t already have one, will also do wonders for efficiency. Make sure that your kids’ everyday sneakers and other shoes like rain boots are set out by the door.

3. Don’t Leave Supply Shopping Too Late

Get the school supply shopping out of the way early, before everyone else is rushing to do their last-minute trip. Get your kids involved in the process as well, so that you have a better idea of what they need and so that they can get excited about their new supplies. Plus, doing your main shopping trip early will make it easier to stop by the store for anything you forget or that your kids realize they need as school draws nearer.

4. Ease into Your School Routine

You don’t want to jump right from the laid-back summer routine into waking up at the crack of dawn to get the kids ready for school. It’s a good idea to start setting your alarm earlier and practicing your routine a few days in advance, especially if your kids have gotten used to staying up later over the summer months. If your kids will be taking the bus, then you can even practice heading out to the bus stop one morning.

5. Tour the School and Meet the Teachers

If your school hasn’t already reached out, then check in about an open house where you will have a chance to meet the teacher and take a tour of the building. This is especially helpful for kids who are starting school or transferring to a new one. It can put your child’s mind at ease and make you feel better about the transition as well.

Without the added stress, the back-to-school season can be a time of excitement. Take advantage of some of the free time left in summer to get your kids and yourself ready to return to a routine.