Summer has come to an end and the kids are back in school. As exciting as it can be to start the new school year, the first week can be overwhelming for both you and your child. So, between your trip to the mall and the grocery store, it is important to stop, take a break and get organized to make sure that the school year starts off right.

With a little planning, you can make going back to school simple and stress-free. Many schools send out school information and packets to fill out when school starts. This is a great time to mark the important dates, such as parent-teacher conferences, PTA meetings as well as school events and holidays.  Discussing the daily routine, carpool schedule and afterschool plans with your children will help everyone get focused on school, while also making your expectations for this year crystal clear.

You can also take advantage and save big with back-to-school sales. A great way to save money on school supplies is to search for bargains or coupons in the local newspaper or online. This weekend, Georgia will offer parents a tax-free holiday on back-to-school supplies, which means that there will be some great deals and incredible savings on everything from crayons and pencils to back packs and stylish threads happening all around town.

For sales tax holiday details and exceptions, please visit: https://etax.dor.ga.gov/salestax/bulletins/5-1-12_Sales_Tax_Holiday_IB_05_02_2012.pdf

Check out more great ideas and back-to-school tips from Family Circle.