As Meg Ryan stated in “You've Got Mail” – “Don't you just love a bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils?!” 

It's back to school week for most parents.   Are you ready?  Are your kids ready?

Here are 5 helpful back-to-school hints for parents with returning students: 

• Ease into Bedtime:  Sure, those 9:00 pm bike rides are fun in the summertime – but you should start buckling down on bedtime one week before school starts.   This way, the kids will be acclimated and well rested when school begins
• Discuss the Homework Routine:  If your children had homework last year – encourage them by reminding them of a great job they had done the previous year.  If homework is new to your kids, explain the homework schedule by outlining the time and place homework will be done.  Some good rules of thumb are trying to finish homework before dinner – and not allowing TV until all homework is complete.
• Visit your New School:  If your child is entering a new school or new building, be sure to swing her by for a visit before school starts.  If this isn't possible, try to schedule a playdate with another child who will be entering the same school as your child.  Beginning the year with some familiarity with the building or with fellow classmates can be very helpful.
• Get those School Supplies:  Hey, school supply shopping could actually be enjoyable!  Make a special date with each child individually.  Perhaps you could even schedule a special lunch date with that child after buying all of their school necessities.   This makes kids feel special – and completely obliterates sibling rivalry.
• Talk About It:  While you're out school supply shopping, discuss with your kids some of their expectations or fears about starting the new year.  Share some personal memories of your own!  Remember to be honest, but positive.

As for those without kids – or those with grown kids, don't fret we have some pointers for you as well.

As everyone shuffles into the “back to school mode” try to maintain a fresh perspective on your job functions as well.  Be a better communicator, stay positive, and try to give a helping hand to your colleagues.  Whether or not you have fond memories of going back to school yourself – it's always encouraging to have a fresh start and a positive outlook in whatever you are doing.