Sadly, the summer is ending and it’s time to go back to school. New clothes, starting sports, and so much more awaits kids in this new school year. So be prepared to have the best year yet!
Make the most of the end of summer with these fun back-to-school events in and around Chicagoland:
- Back to School Health & Resource Fair, Norridge — August 6
- Free Student Gold Pass to Volo Museum — August 10-14
- Back to School Drive, Belmont Gardens — August 15
- Back to School Party, Old Irving Park — August 28
Summer Assignments
Most kids these days are assigned homework over the summer to help prepare them for the classes they are going to take in the next school year. Lots of times these assignments are due on the first day of school or the first week of school. I must admit that I sometimes delayed working on these assignments, but it’s really not a good idea to procrastinate, because then you are stressed out. Time for your kids to complete these so they can truly enjoy the last days of summer without that pressure hanging over them (and you.)
Return to Sports
The best part of going back to school, for many, is returning to sports or school activities. For teens, high school sports usually begin a few weeks before the start of school. Fall sports such as soccer, football, and volleyball have a couple days of tryouts, and then the season usually begins even before the school year starts. Not only is it a great way to build friendships, especially if they are entering high school, but also it gets them back into the routine of getting up and going to school.
For extracurricular activities outside of school, check out our 2026-27 Local Extracurricular Activity Guide for lots of great options.
Language Support
Set your student up for success by making sure they have all the developmental support they need.
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Speech therapy that meets your family where you are! Embark Speech & Language Therapy proudly supports children and families throughout our Chicago community with personalized, engaging speech and language services. With options for therapy in our clinic in River West, at home, at school, or through teletherapy, we make it easier to find support that fits your family's routine. We are currently welcoming new clients for the fall!
Shopping
Clothes
Another fun thing about going back to school is getting new clothes and shoes. My Mom has my brothers, and I, try on clothes that have been sitting in our drawers over the summer. Lots of times, the clothes don't fit once fall comes, so we go out and get some new clothes. My favorite part of that is buying new soccer shoes. With a variety of styles and colors, I can choose a different kind every fall.
Don't forget to check out/bookmark our 2026 Deals for Students/Teens in Chicagoland.
School Supplies
As you probably know, if you wait until the weekend before school starts to buy your school supplies, everything will have been picked over and most essential items will be sold out. Shop early to get the best deals and selection.
Healthcare
Now is the time to get all your kids' healthcare appointments in so they don't interfere with school attendance, or tests days in the fall.
Annual physicals - Flu shots are available now, and don't forget to get those sport releases signed.
Dentist - Start the year off with pearly white smiles!
Orthodontist - Braces, aligners, etc. are a commitment, but the sooner they are on, the sooner they are off.
Optometrist - Be sure your kids are putting their best foot forward. You want to make sure they can clearly see "the board" and all the reading materials without strain.
Self-Care
Haircuts - Getting a new haircut ranging from a stylish fade to unique dreads is a fun part of returning to school. New hairstyles are an easy way to let your kid express themselves. They can add temporary color, tinsel, extensions, etc. Plus all that chlorine and sea water this summer can take a toll. A good conditioning treatment may be in order.
Capturing the Memories
Photography - We all know this time in our kids' lives, and ours, is fleeting. You'll want to be sure to capture these moments, and yearbook photos don't often do justice.
Printables - Free Back-to-School Printables to Celebrate that First Day - Two to Choose From:
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