In most places, the school year is drawing to a close. A few steps now can make the end of the school year much easier to negotiate.

• Set up file folders for year-end reports and projects that will come home from school. Try to keep it to one file per child.
• Don't store school clothes or uniforms that are worn out or outgrown. (Why waste the space?) Discard or donate them as appropriate.
• Store school supplies that can be reused or passed down.
• Download and post summer reading lists in a family reading corner. If your school doesn't have summer readings lists, ask why and check with the local public library to see if they offer something. You can also check the websites of private schools in your area to see if they offer summer reading suggestions.
• Say thank you to your kids' teachers. They do NOT want perfume, bath salts, candles, or World's Best Teacher mugs. The best gifts are thank you letters – one from you and one from your child, letting them know how their efforts made a difference. If you want to do something in addition to a thank you letter, think gift cards to bookstores, office supply stores, or craft stores (teachers spend a lot of their own money equipping the classrooms), or to local restaurants or coffee shops.

What do you need to prepare for the end of the school year?