Marisa Brahney emphasizes the importance of establishing a consistent routine early on to ease the transition back into school life. She advises families to start adjusting bedtime schedules at least two weeks before the first day, helping children feel more rested and focused. Brahney also highlights the power of prep work-such as organizing backpacks, selecting outfits, and planning nutritious lunches ahead of time-to eliminate morning chaos and create a smoother start. For busy households, setting reminders on smartphones or using family calendars can ensure everyone stays on track with homework deadlines and extracurricular activities.

Beyond organization, Brahney encourages families to be savvy shoppers by taking advantage of seasonal discounts and special offers. She suggests creating a wishlist of essentials and comparing deals at multiple retailers to maximize savings. Below is a quick comparison of popular back-to-school expenses to help parents budget effectively:

Item Average Cost Smart Savings Tip
School Supplies $30 Buy in bulk or wait for end-of-summer sales
Clothing $75 Shop clearance racks or use store apps for coupons
Technology $150 Refurbished devices offer reliable savings