I know that some places are already back in school. Other places head back soon. Summer jobs are ending. It's back to school time.

But despite what you see in ads, back to school isn't just about buying stuff. Here are some things to consider:

• If summer started with a reading list or other assignments, now is a good time to check in on progress. Your high schooler isn't likely to read The Grapes of Wrath in a single night. Plan ahead.
• It's not a bad idea to encourage students of any age to spend at least 30 minutes a day doing math or word problems, writing a short story or description, or just reading. Some kids have had so much screen time all summer that other skills have atrophied.
• Start moving back to your school year routine. If necessary, begin altering bedtime and wake up time. get into the habit of setting out each day's clothes the night before.
• Find all the school supplies, backpacks, etc, left from last year and see what is still usable.
• Go through school clothes and launder repair, or replace as needed.

Keep enjoying your summer, but slowly begin the transition .