20 ways to make back-to-school easier

Need some help getting the kids organized for school? Not to worry -- we've created a guide to help make the transition from lazy summer to the structure of September easy for the kids... and you!

Have a laugh at one mother's harrowing back-to-school shopping tale in How to get the kids ready for school. Pack them a lunch they'll love with fabulous lunchbox ideas we're sure they won't trade. And be sure to browse page 2 for helpful advice when coping with your child's back-to-school blues.

Back-to-school shopping
How to save money on back-to-school clothes
Read up on how you can save money when you're back-to-school shopping for the kids.



How to find eco-friendly school supplies
It's easy to make your school- and office-supply purchases lighter on the earth – and your wallet. Try these 9 suggestions to make a real difference for the planet, and teach your kids the value of thinking before you buy.

Photo gallery: 10 eco-friendly school-supply picks
Try these suggestions for making your school and office life a little greener -- all available for purchase online!



How to get the kids ready to go back to school
Read about the challenges one mother faces getting her kids ready for back-to-school.



Going concerns: Back-to-school shopping
One family's foray to the mall.




10 things your kids need for back to school
Get your kids organized for back to school with this list of 10 essential school supplies.




Lunchbox ideas
Back to school lunch solutions
Start the year off brilliantly with recipes and packing tips from the Test Kitchen.



Nutritious kids' snacks
Tips on choosing healthy munchies for your kids.




5 cost-saving lunches
Skip the food court in favour of easy, healthy brown-bag meals.




5 food safety tips for kids who pack their own lunches
Teach your kids these important food safety tips.





Page 1 of 2 -- How to beat the back-to-school blues and what to do if problems arise on page 2, PLUS affordable (and free!) after-school activities.