Getting Your Kids Excited to Go Back to School

There are many different types of children, some of whom love going to school and those who loathe it and would prefer to never go back. For children that fall into the latter category, a little planning is in order.

Pick up school supplies early

To get the absolutely best school supplies for your child, shop as early as possible. The last thing you want is a depressed kid who missed out on stocking up for the school year in time and was forced to choose an item she is not that thrilled about. The more excited she is about her supplies  -- including folders, pens, pencils, etc. -- the more excited she will be to return.

Let them choose their clothing
A new school year means a new wardrobe, and what better way to get your child excited about returning to the hallways for another school year than with completely new clothes? Allowing your children to help pick out their own clothing will also help to ease the tension another year of schooling can bring.

Stock up on snacks
Nothing says school quite like school lunches. Purchase delicious, non-perishable snacks ahead of time to get your child looking forward to -- if not classes -- at least lunchtime.

Focus on the positives
If your child seems particularly upset about returning to school, remind himof all the positives that come with it. For example, seeing all the friends he has not seen all summer and getting to participate in after school activities again such as sports or music. Enrolling him in extracurriculars ahead of time will have him looking forward to September.

Plan a back to school party
Once you have your child sort-of looking forward to school, you can end the summer in a big way with a back to school party. Invite over all her friends from school to remind her what she's been missing. A back to school party is also a great way to create a fun experience before kids are forced to ease their way back into a routine.