by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Back to school! The first day or so of elementary school is usually hectic, whether kids are in public, private, or home school. Supplies are being collected and inventoried, everyone's adjusting to the schedule and routine, and the kids may need something to keep them busy. While parents and teachers are busy gathering supplies and preparing for the school year, kids can enjoy these and other back to school activities and art projects. As a mom, homeschool teacher, and former nanny, I have created and organized many back to school crafts, art projects, and activities, many of which have been geared toward elementary students. Here are a few that students might enjoy.

School Time!

Many people may remember playing "school" as a child. Here's a fun back to school activity to introduce your kids to the concept of school time. This is especially beneficial for kids who haven't yet started school. But, in my experience, most elementary students like playing school, even if they're already in school.This game is best played with a group of friends or family members for the most interaction and real-life experience.

Materials:

• small chalkboard
• chalk
• pencils
• paper
• an area for students
• a teacher area

Instructions:
Choose one person as the teacher. Everyone else (if there are other kids) will be the elementary students. Set up an area just like a classroom and have the "teacher" hand out the supplies to everyone. The teacher gets to teach a lesson to everyone, using the chalkboard. It can be a serious lesson or can also be something fun like instructions to draw animals. To make it the most realistic, require kids to raise hands when asking questions. This activity can last as long as the kids are willing to play. Be forewarned that some elementary students may want to play all day.

Fill the Backpack

In this fun back to school activity, elementary students will race to place school items a backpack, mocking the act of preparing for school. This fun back to school activity prepares a child for the act of getting ready in the morning. While it probably won't be quite as hectic as in this race, there will likely be some mornings when kids are rushing to get ready.

Materials:

• school supplies
• miscellaneous household objects
• backpack or bag for each kid

Instructions:
Give the elementary students a list of school supplies and a set amount of time to collect one of each school supply provided. The tricky part is that all supplies will be placed jumbled up with miscellaneous other supplies in two or three different areas. Whichever student loads his or her backpack with all of the items fastest wins the game.

My School Through Art

Kids like to create art that reflects their own lives. Allow elementary students to paint a picture of their school or classroom. If they haven't seen it yet, take them to see it or ask them to be imaginative and come up with a picture of their ideal classroom. The only materials required for this fun back to school art project are paintbrushes, paints, art paper, and the imagination of the child. Some kids are not so neat with paints, so smocks or aprons may also be a good idea.


RELATED:
How to Get Back to School Supplies for Under $25
How to Make the Most of a Back to School Clothing Budget
Save Time and Frustration When Getting Kids Ready for School


*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Back-to-school time can also indicate 'clear the wallet' time for parents and guardians. But it doesn't have to when it comes to school supplies. I know what you're thinking: "My child's list is huge! Can we really spend less than $25?" I have four kids that I purchase school supplies for every year. Our family is unique from some in that we have experienced purchasing school supplies both for traditional school and homeschool. Because I am a stickler for budgeting, I have always been able to stay under $25 for each kid.

The school supply list below is a pretty standard list for first-graders. Some may vary slightly. I’ve included the prices I was able to take advantage of for this list, as well as where I purchased the items.

First Grade School Supply List

1 backpack - $9.99 at Ross
2 (24 count) boxes of pencils - $0.99 each at Dollar Tree
2 tissue boxes - $0.99 each at Dollar Tree
4 loose leaf folders - $.10 each at Wal-Mart or Target
2 composition notebooks - $0.99 at Dollar Tree
1 pair safety scissors - $0.99 at Dollar Tree
2 bottles school glue - $0.20 each at Target or Wal-Mart
2 (24 count) boxes of crayons - $0.20 each at Target or Wal-Mart
1 (12 count) box of wide-tipped markers - $0.99 at Target, Wal-mart, or Dollar Tree
1 (12 count) box of colored pencils - $0.99 at Target, Wal-Mart, or Dollar Tree
1 pkg of loose leaf paper - $0.50 at Wal-Mart
Total = $20.20

Which items should you avoid? Many kids would like to have the heavily decorated supplies and the special Velcro binders. But the fact is that most teachers honestly prefer the plain ones for several reasons. Some teachers ask for enough supplies to last year-round and store the items in a locker for later use. Even when there is not supply-sharing going on, it's easier for the teachers to know which folders (and other items) are for which purpose if everyone has matching supplies. Besides, fancy designs also come with a price that will likely not fit into a budget of under $25. Also, avoid items your child may enjoy, but that are not on the school supply list.

Is it worth it to shop around? That depends on how far apart the stores are, how much gas it costs you, and a few other factors. Our family is dedicated to being green. Therefore, we generally walk to most stores, unless they are too far away. Because of this, the cost of the school supplies is all we would spend. To get the most savings, it's best to shop at stores that have back-to-school sales and are near each other. The stores we used in our list above are all near our house and all within walking distance of each other. There's also a benefit to that if you are driving because it means less gas is spent. If you spend an extra $5-$10 (or more) on gas while running across town, you really haven't saved on the school supplies.

RELATED:
How to Make the Most of a Back to School Clothing Budget
Back to School: Must-Have Accessories for Tweens
Back to School: Must-Have Accessories for Teens

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Back to school time is generally a time of year when some parents choose to do the most stocking up on clothing. Whether your kids are educated in traditional or home school, back to school clothing is likely a necessity. Not only will the kids probably concerned about a certain look, but the season is changing and last fall's clothes may no longer fit, even if they're in good condition. Most people don't have unlimited cash, so here are some tips on how to make the most of a back to school clothing budget.

Do a Full Inventory of Clothing Already Owned
Take the back to school event as the perfect opportunity to go through each child's entire wardrobe. Set aside clothing that is worn out or no longer fits. The worn out and improperly sized clothing can be used for other purposes (more on that later). The clothing that still fits and is in good condition can be used as part of the back to school wardrobe, providing it is weather appropriate for your area. Shop with those pieces in mind.

Shop at Discount Retail Outlets
Some retail outlets have a clearance version of their store. There also are outlet stores that offer department store clothing at a fraction of the cost. Some of my personal favorites for kids clothing areRoss andT.J. Maxx. In addition to their already low prices, these stores often have back to school clothing sales. I've gone to these stores and got name brand clothing items for less than twenty dollars - and even less than ten dollars.

Repurpose Unused Clothing as Hair Accessories, Belts, and More
Remember that worn out and improperly sized clothing? There are several ways to actually use it in the back to school clothing wardrobe. For girls, use the worn out clothing to sew ponytail holders, headbands, scarves, belts, and other accessories. Cut pants to make them into shorts or capri pants and let out the waist if necessary. The unused clothing can also be used to create fun patches and designs on new back to school clothing. When you're done creating, please donate the usable clothing to a local church or homeless shelter for disadvantaged kids.

Shop All Year and Stock Up During Sales
Throughout the year, as you see sales, stock upon items you know will be used later. Items such as t-shirts, that will be used often can especially be bought in bulk. See a cute dress at a steal-deal price? Grab it one size larger than your child's current size. When back-to-school time comes back around, chances are it will then fit perfectly.

Swap with Friends
If you have a friend that has a kid in the same size as yours, get together and swap clothes your kid no longer likes. Perhaps there will be some items your kid likes that the other doesn't and vice versa. It can turn out to be a win-win situation for extra back-to-school clothing items. Plus, what neither likes can be passed on to other kids or donated to a homeless or needy center for kids.

Mix and Match
Instead of purchasing 5 pairs of jeans and 5 shirts, you could buy 3 pairs of jeans and 7 or more shirts. This gives a child more back to school outfit options. I especially like to have plenty of shirts that will match with various pants, skirts, and shorts. If your child likes to wear jean material (or another material that several colors can match with) quite often, this idea works even better. Tops don't have to be limited to the bottom that they came with and vice versa.

RELATED:
Back to School: Must-Have Accessories for Tweens
Back to School: Must-Have Accessories for Teens
Save Time and Frustration When Getting Kids Ready for School

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Ready to send your tween off for another school year? Wait! Before you do that, make sure your tween has all the necessities. School supplies are far from the only thing your tween needs. There are some must-have items you may not think about. Even if you consider the item, you may not realize just how important certain aspects of it may be. As a veteran mom, here are some of the must-have accessories I recommend for tweens.

A backpack that fits right makes all the difference. You likely already know your tween needs a backpack. But did you know that fit is important? If your tween is walking around with a backpack that does not fit right or is too bulky, it can cause serious strain on the back. The straps should not be too loose and your tween should not have the backpack hanging too low. Straps should be snug, but not too tight. Did you know that backpacks are actually sized for certain age and weight ranges? Be sure you are choosing the correct one. While the latest character backpack may be appealing, if it isn't the right fit, you are not doing your child a favor by purchasing it.

Journaling helps your tween remember assignments and get down feelings. A journal can be a great way for your tween to write down thoughts during break times. This can help relieve any stress or get out any other emotions so they don't build up during school. It can also double as a way to keep track of certain assignments. Doubling it as a place to hold assignments helps prevent others from trying to read your tween's other thoughts. Decorative notebooks are great for this purpose, as you don't want the look to be obviously diary-like.

Every tween needs a cell phone. I realize that some parents will cringe at me saying this. However, the world is much different than it was when we were kids. Having a cell phone helps keep your tween safe. Be sure that rules are set to only use it during certain times and to keep it put away safely at other times. If your tween rides or walks home from school with someone other than you, a cell-phone can literally be a life-saver. While it may sound like giving in to a trend, the reasons a tween should own a cell phone are much more important than that. There are low-cost, pay-as-you-go plans, as well as unlimited plans to help avoid your tween from racking up unnecessary costs.

A safety ID helps protect your tween. All kids, especially tweens and teens, should have a safety ID. This is an ID card that features a current photo, fingerprints, and vital information about your tween. Many hospitals and other safety-geared organizations hold events where these can be obtained. If you cannot find one, check with your child's doctor to see if they know where to get one in your area. Generally, there will be a copy for the child, as well as a copy for the parent. This ID will be used to help find and identify your tween in the case of an emergency.

A small file folder helps keep things organized. Tired of trying to figure out whether your tween has any papers you need to sign or not? Is there homework? A special event coming up? Is your tween constantly losing assignments or not keeping them sorted by class? A small file folder can help keep up with all of this at once. Designate a section for each subject, as well as for parent papers. That way, your tween can stick each paper in the correct slot before bringing it home.

RELATED:
Back to School: Must-Have Accessories for Teens
Back to Homeschool: Must-Have Accessories for Homeschoolers On-the-Go
Back to School: Laying Ground Behavioral Rules

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network:
http://web.archive.org/web/20140807061953/http://shine.yahoo.com/back-school-must-accessories-tweens-205700676.html

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Is it really back to school time already? Is your teen prepared? Over the years I've learned that the supply list the teachers give out is only the beginning of the true list of materials needed. Accessorize your teen with items they can actually use. No, I'm not talking fashion here. These five must-have accessories for teens are just some of the things you'll learn to embrace time and time again.

Teens need a phone with GPS tracking. This will help you, as the parent, keep track of where your teen is. Don't take this to mean I'm advocating spying on a regular basis. But in emergency situations, this is a purchase you will not regret. Would I spy on my kids? You bet I would if their lives depended on it. Wouldn't you? Thankfully, not all parents will encounter a situation where it's needed. However, you sure don't want your teen to be without it in a critical moment. I highly recommend that all parents of teens make sure they can use their teen's cell phone to find them in an emergency situation.

Give your teen a pocket pouch. A pocket pouch is a very small container that fits in the pocket. This is for any items your teen needs to keep close all day, like a house key or other important small items. A coin purse or small drawstring bag works well for this. You may also wish to turn this into an opportunity to craft something together. Let your teen pick out the materials. Suggestions include trendy fabric choices, buttons, ribbon, sequins, floral stems, leather strips, and lace. But your teen may have other plans.

Mini computers help keep your teen organized. While this may not be on the official school supply list, it is going to be increasingly difficult for kids of all ages to get schoolwork done without a computer. A mini computer helps your teen organize everything efficiently without having to carry around too much weight. Homework assignments can be researched and tracked via a mini computer. Your teen can also use it to keep in touch with you, organize after-school activities, and so much more.

Flash drives can save your teen time. Don't want your teen carrying around a computer? Not even a mini one? Try flash drives instead. Most likely the school has a computer your teen can use. Flash drives can be used to store important data, like research, assignments, and class notes. Carrying a flash drive around is less bulky than lugging around a ton of extra materials. Don't have a printer at home? Your teen can move assignments to the flash drive and print them at school. This also helps if your teen does research from the library. Research notes can be moved onto the flash drive for later use.

Multi-subject file folders can save your teen's back. I mean that literally, as well as figuratively. A multi-subject file folder helps your teen sort papers by subject, as well as have a section of papers for you and the teacher. This takes up less space, uses less materials, and will be easier for your teen to carry. It's also a great way to ensure things stay in order. Just think back to all those times you've scolded your child for not bringing home the homework or forgetting to give you important papers. You can cut down on such instances by providing your teen with a multi-subject file folder.

RELATED:
Back to Homeschool: Must-Have Accessories for Homeschoolers On-the-Go
Back to Homeschool: Establishing a Routine
Back to Homeschool: Online vs Text Curriculum

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network:
http://web.archive.org/web/20140807061953/http://shine.yahoo.com/back-school-must-accessories-teens-192900756.html

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Homeschoolers on the go need to always have certain items on hand. But do you know what they are? If your homeschooling family is on the go like ours, it will make learning so much easier if you keep certain materials around. Whether you need materials to save the lesson for later, study while on the move, or create memories, my family's experiences may help.

A compact digital camera and camcorder adds to the lesson. Kids who are encouraged to film and take pictures of specific items and lessons can get a double lesson. It also serves as a great memory for later. We like to take pictures of the nature we view, places we go, as well as just fun moments that we have. This helps us recall the lessons we learned together as a homeschooling family. But it also gives us great family memories. Sometimes lessons happen when you least expect them. Always having a camera ready can help you capture those moments.

Never forget your library card at home. Even if you hadn't planned a trip to the library, it can come up at a moment's notice. Homeschoolers on the go often learn right at the library. But how many times have you been on a homeschool excursion and need to get a book to accent what you've learned? What if the library is closer to you than your house? Do you really want to go all the way back home, just for a library card? Never forget library cards for all family members. One trick I like to use is to place the library card (and other important cards) on an I.D. necklace or bracelet. This way, it's less difficult for everyone to forget theirs.

Collection slides and dishes are a must. Homeschool outings to the lake or pond can produce some interesting results. The same can even be said for a drainage ditch, walking trail, and even just a city walk to the store. Specimen dishes and collection slides come in handy in many instances. Homeschoolers on the go should never leave home without them. Collecting specimens is just one more way of being able to continue the lesson at home. If you have a microscope, they come in handy even more. We've collected bugs, leaves, moss, pond water, and more all because we had some type of collection dish with us. Nature happens all around us.

A small laptop serves several purposes. Need a place to take notes? Perhaps you just showed the kids a certain dinosaur and need some follow up questions or activities? We've used the laptop to watch educational movies, research something relevant to the day's studies, and even to take notes. All of the above and more contribute to laptop being a must-have for homeschoolers on the go. Smaller notebook computers may be better than the full-sized versions, as they are more compact for easier traveling. Look for thinner, lightweight models, if you don't already have a small computer to use.

A fully charged cell phone keeps you prepared. Ever get lost on the way to a homeschool field trip? Don't have GPS? No problem. A charged cell phone that has Internet capabilities can help. Cell phones with GPS or even capabilities to visit Yahoo! or Google maps can be used to tell people where you are, as well as lead you to your destination. Then, of course, depending on where you are going, you may need to call and talk to that company. On the less cheery side of things, cell phones also come in handy if something goes wrong. Cell phones with cameras will also eliminate the need for a separate camera.

RELATED:
Back to Homeschool: Establishing a Routine
Gym Class Activities for Homeschool
Back to Homeschool: Online vs Text Curriculum

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network:
http://web.archive.org/web/20130518063357/http://shine.yahoo.com/back-homeschool-must-accessories-homeschoolers-200500783.html