Mom 101

1. Create a back-to-school checklist

The checklist is your secret weapon in the war against chaos. All it takes is a prominently displayed white board and some dry erase markers. Make a list of everything you‘ll need to start the school year right, from backpack, school supplies, pencils and crayons to clothes and shoes. Then during the year, use it to post homework assignments and reminders such as what to bring to Show and Tell. The result will be a child who gets a sense of accomplishment from checking items off his to-do list.

2. Designate a homework space

Doing homework at the kitchen table is a time-honored tradition. But your child needs a quiet, out-of-the way place to study. It's surprisingly affordable to find child-sized desk sets that provide a special spot to do his best work.

3. Keep your child organized

No child should be tasked with chores beyond his abilities. But back-to-school routines take partnership. Invest in laundry bags, shoe organizers, and wastebaskets – and make sure your child knows what they're for.

4. Establish a household schedule

Children need structure. Stick to a regular dinnertime and bedtime. If you limit television watching and computer games, your child will head off to school well-rested and ready to learn.

5. Prepare for the coming day

Before bedtime, make sure your child packs his school work and books in a book bag or knapsack. Uniforms eliminate the get-ready-for-school hassle, but if that's not an option, help him lay out his school clothes the night before. You'll cut down on morning tantrums – and be more likely to get everybody back to school on time.