Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to make sure all health forms are returned, permission slips signed, and drop-offs/pickups coordinated.

You may select any calendar, reminder system, or notepad to complete this task. However, we strongly recommend the following.

Erin Condren Jumbo Calendar
Backed with a sturdy piece of acrylic, the calendar ($40) hangs on the wall or sits on a counter propped up by a plate stand. Personalize it with your name and family pics; use colorful reminder stickers (date night, no school, hair appointment) to keep things on track.

Susy Jack Notes Mouse Pad
You’re online ordering winter pj’s when you remember you need milk — a natural mom-brain connection. Thankfully, a notepad is always at your fingertips, courtesy of a mouse pad ($9) that doubles as a to-do list. It’s a multifunctional solution for a multitasking mom.

Russell + Hazel Signature Binder and Files
Think of them as Trapper Keepers for the carpool set. The three-ring accessories ($14-$60) can be organized to house class lists, emergency contact info, extracurricular schedules, and school calendars, as well as homework, projects, and report cards.

If you do not get organized, your home will self-destruct in one month. Welcome back to school.

	Need more help getting it together? We found the best kids’ backpacks for the new school year.

SNIP
Cut Arts Silhouettes
What: Scissors wizard (and celeb fave) Karl Johnson creates a paper likeness ($25) of your munchkin.
Why: More heirloom worthy than those iPhone photos.
When: Book now for Sun.-Aug. 20.
Where: Locations and schedule online at cutarts.com.

CELEBRATE
50 Fest
What: Bubble blowing, hot dogs, and crafty activities mark the Amon Carter Museum of American Art’s 50th anniversary.
Why: Birthday cake for everyone.
When: Sat., 5:30-9 p.m.
Where: 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth (817-738-1933). Adults and children, free.

DAZZLE
Barnum 200
What: With its troupe of acrobats and exotic animals, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus never fails to wow.
Why: The Bionic Brothers defy gravity in their awe-inspiring act.
When: Wed. & Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 10:30 a.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 11:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.
Where: Fort Worth Convention Center, 1201 Houston St., Fort Worth (817-392-6338). Tickets at 800-745-3000 or online at ringling.com. Adults and children, $15-$95.

Photos: Courtesy of Erin Condren; Courtesy of Blue Sky; Courtesy of Russell + Hazel