Get the combination lock early and have your child practice opening and locking it. Fumbling with locks can be an embarrassment for many students if it constantly makes them late for class. One student who had difficulty with his lock chose to carry all of his books with him to every class and to home at night. When it finally came to light after the child complained of back pain that he was trucking around his entire locker contents, lt took only one evening's practice to get him comfortable and competent with his lock. Get back into routines well before the night before school starts.
Many kids thrive on routine, routine, routine.
Starting regular bedtimes and meal times a week or two before school goes back will help them shift from summer to back to school schedules. Most adolescents need between 8 and 9 hours of sleep a night. Try to make sure they get it. Get to know the culture of the school. What are the rules, attitudes and general atmosphere.