Children’s Back to School Checklist

For a child, going back to school is an exciting event. For a parent, it’s a load of to-do’s and expenses. This easy form can be used and customized by any adult to help get a child prepared for the new school year.

How to use the Children’s Back to School Checklist

Start by downloading the list and opening it into Excel. It already is pre-populated, and has some items crossed off to show you how it will look.

Start by choosing “Clear” from the top Excel menu on any cells that don’t apply. Once those are cleared, you can enter in your own requirements for the checklist. The list is split into two parts, with one side focused on tasks. If your child has already been in school for a while, many of these tasks won’t be needed. Keep the ones you need to do, and add any tasks that you haven’t covered yet.

On the right side column is the To Buy. This lists general school items, but it is best to use the teacher’s official list of school supplies needed. You will also want to add any unique items that your child will need, such as a re-usable water bottle or bike helmet. An item not included in the template to think about is extra medication the school nurse will need to hold if your child requires it, such as asthma inhalers.

After your checklist is filled, you can print it off or keep track of your progress through the Excel sheet.

Tips on using the Children’s Back to School Checklist

• You can use the “to buy” column as a “to collect” reference if you already have the supplies, or are getting it together before the first day of school.
• If your child has already been in school, think back to what you ended up needing to do or buy in the first weeks after the start of school. Add anything to the list that was forgotten before school last time.
• While reviewing the school dress code is on the list, you can request a rulebook from the school to review yourself and with your child.
• Though your child may have phone numbers, names, and addresses memorized, it can be a good thing to make sure the school and/or the teacher has the same information available to them.
• Print off a second copy of the “To Buy” column and have your child check off items as you get them. This can be a fun activity and will help your child remember what they need with them at school every day.

Download the Children’s Back to School Checklist

Template courtesy of Microsoft