Ready, Set, School
For most parents back to school clothes shopping is a chore. For most kids its anxiety producing. Questions race through their minds, “Does this look good on me?”, “Is this brand still in?”, “What will my BFF be wearing?”, etc. This can make a trip to the store last hours, cause frustration and maybe even a hangry person.
So, what does it take to get the best first day outfit?
1. “If at all possible, start thinking about your back-to-school outfit as soon as you can. You may not be ready to get back into the school mindset just yet, but being prepared will prevent it from sneaking up on you” — Amanda Mcarthur, SweetyHigh
2. Keep three things in mind— who do you look up to style wise, what shows off who you are as a person, and what gives you a new vibe (if this is what you’re going for)
3. Now get shopping
The first day of school outfit is more important to students that say their birthday or Christmas. “The first-day-of-school outfit is romanticized among students of just about every age. More than January 1, the start of a new school year represents a chance for reinvention and resolution. A new pair of sandals or authentic baseball jersey can feel like the outward embodiment of a fresh beginning.” — Hayley Glatter, The Atlantic. Since the stores want you to come and buy your outfit from them, their ads present their clothes as making you more confident. You’ll feel more confident in a Hollister T-Shirt, Urban Outfitter jeans, Nike Dunks, etc.. Better yet, go on DePop and find a vintage jean jacket or sweater to make your outfit a success.
If your child(ren) is like mine, high school means no more first day of school photos (boo-hoo!). For those of you who can still get their kids to take a photo, here are some tips for a frame worthy print…
1. Choose the right light
2. Keep it to a neutral background (trees, stone wall, interior wall, etc.)
3. If you plan to use a first day of school sign, think about what information you want to put on it like age, school year, date, favorite color, etc.
4. Keep it simple and take the picture even if they have bed head, are up to antics with their sibling, making faces, etc. —Green Child Magazine
All is all, remember that you child is nervous (and probably more than you) and remember to serve him/her a healthy breakfast. Interesting fact: the term “back to school” came about in the 1960s to further encourage consumerism amongst American families.
Chec heck out my Back-to-School workshop on Sunday, August 21st at 11 AM. You’ll learn how to get your kids to love doing their homework, adjust screen rules and create a trail mix station for healthy snacking.