Disclaimer: Staples and I have partnered together this back-to-school season to share about our family’s annual traditions.
This year’s back-to-school season is a first for our family. Mr. Dude is going into Kindergarten and he couldn’t be more excited. We’ve gone over the school supplies list at least a dozen times.
He’s spent the last few years attending the early childhood programs at my workplace. This year he gets to start “real school,” in his words. That means a new school. New friends. New rules. I was constantly the new kid at schools when I was young so I’ve been giving him tips on how to make those connections. He’s way more outgoing than I was at his age. I don’t think he’ll have any problems at all.
We’re moving soon so registration was a bit tricky. All the paperwork is now sorted though. It’s a nice little elementary school. His teacher and the school staff seem to be pleasant.
Among other things on our to do list this week is last minute shopping details. I remember being a kid and doing back to school shopping. It was the only time a year my siblings and I got new paper notebooks, pencils, and crayons. And it was one of three times a year that we got new clothes. Christmas and Easter would be the second and third.
I’m fortunate to be able to offer more to my kids than I had when I was little. My wife works hard and does well enough to allow me to spend time with the kids that I wouldn’t be able to otherwise.
This year, I’m proud to partner with Staples during the busy back-to-school 2018 season. If you live in Chicago, there is an event tomorrow, August 15th between 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Staples (111 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60602)! Come in to purchase a new school supply and have it signed by local hometown hero, Brian Urlacher.
In case you were wondering, I’ll be at 111 N. Wabash Ave. shopping along-side other parents, teachers, and students. During the event attendees will have an opportunity to meet Brian Urlacher, participate in interactive activities, and purchase the newest back to school products.
For the fifth year in a row, Staples is also partnering with DonorsChoose.org to support local classrooms! Visit your local Staples store to donate to teacher’s projects in your community or donate online at Staplesforstudents.org. Better yet, Staples will match donations raised during the back-to-school season!
The social gatherings around back-to-school are one of my favorite parts of the season. It’s a opportunity to meet new people, interact with the community, and get prepared for what waits ahead. This also often meant cookies along with a new college ruled notebook and ball-point pen when I was younger. I’m a huge fan of cookies and short-story writing. It helps the creative juices get moving and satisfies my sweet tooth. Now that I’m older I add coffee into the mix.
Mr. Dude and I sometimes sit at the kitchen table and write short stories together. These stories often become complete once my five-year-old completes a few hand drawn illustrations.
The in store deals at Staples, are valid nationally. So, even if you don’t live in Chicago or you miss the Brian Urlacher event, you can find great deals on back to school supplies for your school aged or post-collegiate members of the family.
What sort of things do you and your family do together for back-to-school? Don’t forget the First Day of School photos!
