The countdown to a new school year is on! Make the transition from summer to the classroom a little easier with this simple checklist for the whole family!
Before the First Day
- Review your child's school supply list and shop early.
- Try on school clothes, shoes, and backpacks to make sure everything still fits.
- Complete any required school forms or online registration.
- Confirm transportation plans, bus routes, or carpool schedules.
- Schedule annual physicals, sports physicals, dental appointments, and update immunizations if needed.
Reset the Routine
- Begin adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times 1–2 weeks before school starts.
- Practice the morning routine to make the first week less stressful.
- Set up a dedicated homework and study space at home.
- Create a family calendar for school events, practices, and activities.
- Plan easy weeknight meals and prep lunches ahead of time.
Get Organized
- Stock up on healthy snacks for after school.
- Check that all technology is charged, updated, and ready for class.
- Review lunch account balances and school meal options.
- Save important school contacts in your phone.
- Keep a basket by the door for backpacks, shoes, and permission slips.
Prepare for Success
- Talk with your child about goals for the new school year.
- Visit the school or attend orientation if possible.
- Discuss any first-day nerves and answer questions together.
- Encourage a positive attitude and celebrate the start of a new adventure.
Next, check out the below! Here are some Back to School events happening in your area this back to school season!
Back to School Open House | Time for Dinner in Brentwood | July 28th
Back to School Fair | The Boys & Girls Club | August 1, 2026
Back to School Bookbag Giveaway | Church of the Living God | August 1, 2026
Ready for Day One Health Fair | St. Louis Public Schools | August 24th
$5 Storefront for Kids | We Love St. Charles | July 31, 2026
Community Cuts for Kids | The Burton & Craig Shields Foundation | August 8-9, 2026
Drive Thru Back to School | Urban League of Metro St. Louis | August 8, 2026
Community Empowerment Festival | Urban League of Metro St. Louis | August 15, 2026
Missouri Tax Free Weekend | State of Missouri | August 7-9, 2026
United Way of St. Louis | Dial 211 to connect with community resources for food, housing, utility assistance, childcare and more.
Start Here St. Louis | Directory of local resources including food pantries, housing, family services and more.
School Supply Drive | YMCA of Greater St. Louis | July 1 - August 3, 2026
Back to School Drive | St. Louis County Library | July 1-31, 2026
Back to School Open House | St. Louis County Library | September 2, 2026
Kindergarten KEYS to Success | St. Charles County Library | October 24, 2026
Back to School Picnic | Girlz 4 Life | August 9, 2026
RNSS Charity Car Show and School Supplies | Rides N School Supplies | August 8, 2026
Back to School Fair | Genuine Christian Academy | August 15, 2026
Back to School Carnival & Health Fair | Jessie B’s Academy | August 22, 2026
Back to School with Books | A Red Circle | August 1, 2026
Back to School Bash | Influence Church | August 9, 2026
