Summer's end is filled with longing for a few more days of freedom, and excitement and hope for new beginnings, especially for children who are heading off to school for the first time. New school supplies are neatly stacked, new school clothes are yet unblemished, and new friends await.

But the first days–even the first few weeks–of school can be hectic and emotionally challenging for kids and parents alike. Here is a checklist, beyond the standard school supply list, that will help you get ready for the school bell.

Keep it Straight

Mark your calendar: Buy a large wall calendar to mark the many conferences, orientation meetings, carpool responsibilities and extra-curricular activities that fill your family's schedule. Use a different color pen or marker for each family member's activities, and hang the calendar in a very visible spot so everyone knows what's happening.

Paperwork: Have an in/out box for all the important paperwork that you need to fill out and return to school--medical forms, emergency cards, book and supply order forms, volunteer sign-up sheets, etc. Deposit all the papers, artwork and other keepsakes that come home each day into a folder, binder or "treasure box."

Set the Routine

Bedtime: Ease into an earlier bedtime during the week before school. Start the bedtime routine a few minutes earlier every night, until you hit your goal time on the night before school. With your child going to bed earlier, you will have enough time to prepare for the next day by packing the backpack and setting out clothes.

The kiss goodbye: Start a parting ritual on the first day of school and keep it throughout the year. Whether it's saying the same little phrase, or giving the same special kiss, your child can expect his day to start out right, every day.

Lunch: Some parents find it easier to prepare a lunch the night before; others make it in the morning. Either way, plan your lunch menu a week at a time to avoid guesswork before your morning cup of coffee.

After school: Your child will undoubtedly be hungry as soon as she walks in the door. Have a healthy snack ready and waiting so you can really listen to her tell you about her day. Also, have a folder, binder or box handy to deposit all the papers and artwork that come home each day.

Dinner: Planning ahead for dinner really helps during busy school nights filled with homework, sports, and after-school activities. Registered dietician Hope Warshaw, author of Eat Out, Eat Right (Surrey Books, 2003), suggests that parents make a list of two or three meals that are quick and easy to prepare, and always have the ingredients for these meals on hand.