Your Guide for All Things Back to School- From the Maria Sims Group

Summer break is quickly winding down, and school season is almost here. Whether your kid is starting a new grade, a new school, or learning from home—here’s everything you’ll want to know to make the transition smoother, for parents and the kids!

Important dates!
Every district is a little different, so heres a quick rundown of local start dates:
- Cherokee County: August 1st
- Pickens County: August 1st
- Cobb County: August 5th
- Fulton County: August 5th
- Forsyth County: August 1st

Where to grab supplies:
Here are a few local go-tos that help take the stress out of supply shopping
- Target 
- 5 below is great for affordable finds
- The Outlet Shoppes Woodstock 
- Amazon is online but always a great resource for back to school

Tip: start early to avoid the crowds! 

Resetting the Routine
After a summer of late nights and loose schedules, its time to get back in the groove! It can be a lot, and slightly overwhelming, but here are a few tips to get that routine going again:
- Start adjusting bedtime 1 week before school starts
- Try out a fun 'morning dry run' the week before
- start prepping lunches, backpacks, and outfits. Your future self will thank you!

Lunches They'll actually eat!
If your looking for something different than a PB&J, we've got you covered!
- from air fryer pizza rollups, to egg bites, no bake energy balls, and turkey and cheddar croissant roll ups, click the link here for lots of healthy and easy back to school lunch ideas!

Organize the Chaos (Without Redecorating Your House Entirely)
You don't need a Pinterest- perfect setup to stay on top of everything (although it is fun to redecorate and we fully support that). Here are a few quick and easy tips to stay organized this school year:
- A shoe bin and hook by the door= instant drop zone
- Homework doesn't necessarily need a desk, just a quiet spot. Find a corner in your home that you can dedicate to the 'homework corner' 
- Use a shared digital calendar (Google calendar, Cozi, etc.) to track practices, tests, and events.

After- School Ideas in North Metro 
Once the homework is done, here are a few great ways to spend those weekday evenings:
- The Mill on Etowah: Get out and enjoy some ice cream, the arcade, some great food, and tons of events for the family thought the week! Click the link here for their events list!
- Stop by a cone to pick in DT Canton for a sweet treat!
- Etowah River Park/ Sequoyah Park- Perfect for winding down after school and getting all the zoomies out!
- Woodstock & Canton Library: Lots of free events, reading challenges, and even a great place for mom to read a book while the kids have a quiet place to do their homework! Click the link here for the Canton Library events, and here for a list of the Woodstock Library events throughout the week! 

Thinking About a Move This School Year?
Whether you're looking for more space, a shorter commute, or to get into a top-rated district, this time of year is a great opportunity to explore your options. If you're thinking of making a move before the holidays hit, let's talk about timing and what's possible!