Heather Dubrow's Mantra for Kids' First Day of School Outfits: "Let Them Be Themselves"

Heather Dubrow is slowly but surely getting her brood ready to head back to school. And with the days of summer waning away, the Real Housewives of Orange County mom is sharing her philosophy when it comes to prepping her four kids for the first day of classes with The Daily Dish. She's sharing everything from her school must-haves to whether or not she's more excited than her kids for the school year. Check out her full Q&A below.

What are five things every mom needs to do before the first day of school?

Heather Dubrow: Input major school functions into your calendar for the year. Decide on after school activities with your child so you don't get bogged down with an overloaded schedule and homework. Purge your child's closet for old or ill-fitting clothes and repurchase accordingly. Purchase a backpack or lunchbox. Make sure all health records/immunizations/in case of emergency numbers are current at school.

How much time should a mom spend on picking out a first day of school outfit?

I let my kids pick whatever they want. It's good for them to learn to choose, and their outfit is their calling card! Let them be themselves!

What about an outfit for picture day?

I don't "dress" my kids up for picture day unless they ask. I think it's cool to have an actual portrayal of who they are each year.

How do you prepare for the first day of school?

I start making earlier bed times and I talk to my kids about the upcoming year.

Who is more nervous: you or your kids?

Definitely both! 

What’s a great way to prepare children for the return to school and school nights after all that summer fun?

I try to make school an adventure for my younger ones. For my twins who are going into 6th grade, it’s slightly different. We walk the path of their classes at school so they know where to go and we practice locker combos a few different times so they feel confident on the first day.

What are your kids’ backpack essentials?

For Nicky, it's mechanical pencils. For Max, sticky notes. For Kat, scented erasers. And for Coco, snacks.

Describe the best packed lunch for your kids.

They have a really great hot lunch program at our schools. So I basically just pack snacks: cucumbers, jicama, fruit, and pretzels.

What’s the best way you encourage your kids to get good grades? Any special incentives?
We talk about college and their futures and what they want out of life and it all starts with good grades! We don't bribe for good grades - but we DO celebrate them!

What do you most look forward to when your kids go to school? 

The schedule being "back to normal"... whatever that means. [Laughs.]

Who is more excited: you or your kids?

Both! Most of my kids love school! 
 

Check out some snaps from the Dubrow family below.