Clothes, Closets & Confidence: Helping Your Kids Start School Strong (Without Losing Your Mind)

Alright Dad let’s talk about one of the most underrated parts of back-to-school prep:

The closet.

You know, that magical space where socks disappear, shirts mysteriously shrink, and your kid swears they “have nothing to wear” even though it’s full of clothes?

Before the first-day chaos hits, here are some simple ways to help your kids get dressed, packed, and prepped — and maybe even build a little confidence in the process.

1. Closet Clean-Out: The Dad Edition

No need to be Marie Kondo here, just ask two questions:

• Does it still fit?

• Will they actually wear it?

Grab a couple trash bags and let your kids help:

• One bag for donations

• One bag for “why did we even buy this?”

Bonus points if you find socks without a match. We salute your service.

As you fill those bags for donations make a mental note of what is going and what is in the closest. Getting rid of all pants? Don't forget to purchase pants. Back to school sales are now. Get a few staples for the every day and let the kids pick out a few trendy things to help build confidence for the school year.

2. The Outfit Game

Once the closet’s cleared out, make mornings easier by helping your kids:

• Pick out a “first day of school” outfit together

• Choose 3–5 mix-and-match outfits and set them aside for the first week

• Optional: Let them try a “fashion show” if they’re into that.

  (Dad compliments = confidence boost)

This might seems silly, but cleaning out the closet and

Next up: we’ll tackle the after-school hours — how to be supportive (without becoming the homework police).

You’ve got this, Dad.

Now go find that other sock.