School starts in just a few weeks and we have our checklist! From fashions and backpacks, to lunch prep and sports sign ups, we breakdown ways to get ready to head back to school.
SNEAKERS, BACKPACKS AND MORE
For most kids, a favorite aspect of back to school is the shopping! Getting to pick out that first day pair of shoes, or a backpack that reflects their personality… from elementary through high school, and regardless of public or private school, these 2 items are staples that it’s time to go back on campus.
Shoes are something everyone looks forward to when it comes to shopping for the start of school… kid’s feet grow so quickly that finding the right fit is key. Sneakers top the list whether it’s public or private school, with Nike favs, fun Adidas colors and Puma comfort. Any budget can allow kicks for their kids! Our kids love going to Famous Footwear to pick out their shoes for the school year.
They measured how much their feet had grown from even the end of the school year, picked out shoes, and of course did some walking tests to see if they were the “right” fit. We love that Famous Footwear has so many different options for all the members of the family. We appreciate going in store and trying on shoes because sometimes the shoes that the kids are drawn to aren’t necessarily the right fit for the activity. Make sure to check out Famous Footwear’s site too, for specials and additional styles. There are even backpacks and lunchboxes too so you can complete your look.
HEALTHY LUNCH RECIPES AND SNACKS
Start of school also means making lunches every day, and packing scrumptious snacks before sports… this can be a chore, or you can make it fun with healthy recipes, delicious options and a variety of choices to keep fueled for the day in the classroom or on the field.
We love all of the fresh and organic options at Lazy Acres Natural Market. With two locations in San Diego (Encinitas and Mission Hills) it’s the best spot for families when it comes daily needs. From made-to-order sandwhiches and hot food bars, to an in-house bakery and gorgeous display of produce, you won’t be disappointed with a trip to Lazy Acres.
If you need inspiration for family meal planning with structure re-introduced at the start of school, or just ideas to spruce of the lunchbox routine, check out the Recipes section on at Lazy Acres or attend one of their Cooking Classes for kids or adults.
KIDS COOKING CLASSES
Parents are always looking for extracurriculars in the fall and building off the need of meals, get kids into a cooking class where they can help lessen mom & dad’s plates (pun intended) and also be a creative.
One of the ways we maximize our time as a family is by having the kids help pack their lunches. And a fun way to get some ideas is to take a cooking class. Lazy Acres Markets have cooking classes for kids teens and adults.
Each month the recipes are themed from Back to School to Fall favorites and there is a different class each week. It is a great way for kids to try new dishes, learn how to prepare two themed recipes and have fun with friends. The cooking classes are hands on guided by a chef educator. We appreciated how Chef Hilary taught them proper food prep, explained each step and had them make it alongside her. Plus we love that all materials are included and the cleanup is left to the crew. This could be a great after school activity too! Our kids enjoyed learning how to make a Greek yogurt back with seasonal berries and chocolate. They can’t wait to make it and pack it for their school lunches.
SPORTY SIGN UPS: AFTER SCHOOL TENNIS & PICKLEBALL
From flag football to soccer, fall sports are about to start, but there’s still time to sign up for tennis and pickleball! Not only is there a rise of players under 25 since San Diego is a top city to play, but tennis can actually help improve your grades.
We love being part of Omni La Costa After School Tennis Programs. Playing tennis enhances cognitive function, including decision-making, strategic thinking, and problem solving, while also improving focus and reaction time.
Cliff Drysdale Tennis provides the ultimate tennis experience and an international team of tennis professionals who are certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association across the Omni La Costa’s 8 hard and 4 clay courts (7 of which are lighted). Bryce Cunningham, Senior Director of Racquets, oversees the management of the tennis program at Omni La Costa Resort.
The After School Tennis Programs have sessions for kids elementary through high school at varying levels with two, seven week sessions. From tots to little pros, aces to teens, participants learn strokes, footwork, anticipation, and basic tennis rules. The emphasis is on building a positive attitude, sportsmanship, and proper technique working into point play, scoring, and basic strategy.
For kids ages 7-17 with the same two, seven-week sessions this Fall After School Pickleball Programs are offered. Whether you are a beginner and seeking more of an introduction to learning specific strokes and court positioning, kids will learn how to play, keep score, and basic strategy.
