Intro: Real Talk
We’ve all been there: it’s the night before school starts and suddenly the backpack’s missing, the water bottle is in the dishwasher, and someone needs 48 glue sticks tomorrow.
Back-to-school season is exciting, but let’s be real—it can also be pure chaos. With these 5 simple (and sanity-saving) tips, you can make the first day of school smoother for everyone—with a little help from LINQ Connect.
1. Get Organized Early-ish
- Lay out backpacks, outfits, and meal ideas a few days before
- Download free printables from the LINQ Connect site—like a First Day of School Sign or Reading Tracker
Think of it as future-you saying thanks.
2. Handle Payments Before the Bell Rings
Make life easier before the first-day frenzy hits. With LINQ Connect, you can:
- Download the LINQ Connect App in the Apple Store & Google Play Store
- Register your student – it takes a few clicks
- Add funds to their meal account (no more last minute scrambling)
- Set up Auto Pay or turn on low balance alerts
- Apply for meal benefits (without the mountain of paperwork)
It’s one less thing to stress about before the first bell.
Need a quick start?
Visit the Family Resource Hub for how-tos and helpful walkthroughs.
3. Create a Family Countdown
Turn the back-to-school countdown into a mini adventure:
- Use a visual calendar
- Try our School Year Bucket List download
- Build excitement, ease nerves
4. Practice the Routine
Try a “dress rehearsal” the week before:
- Wake-up alarms
- Breakfast
- Getting out the door
Bonus: Fewer first-day meltdowns for everyone!
5. Take Care of You, Too
This is your moment, too.
- Have a peaceful coffee
- Queue up your favorite playlist
- Give yourself grace—this day is big for you, too
You’ve Got This
Perfect? Nah. Prepared? Totally. And with LINQ Connect, you’re one step ahead.
- Need more tools or downloads? Visit Visit the LINQed for Families Resource Center
- Haven’t downloaded the app yet? Now’s the time! Apple Store & Google Play Store