How to Prepare for Back to School

Back to school is a time of excitement, anxiety, and even a little bit of sadness for both parents and their children. Preparation is one of the best ways to handle the transition from carefree summer fun to a structured school setting. Completing a back to school checklist can help you stay on top of things and and make the transition easier on both you and your child.

Get school supplies ahead of time.

In the days leading up to the school year, expect a rush at the store to score school supplies. Beat the crowds and avoid picked-through products by purchasing all your back to school supplies now, instead of waiting until the last minute.

Plan your child’s wardrobe & back to school outfits.

Now is a good time to go through your child’s closet and see which items of clothing are in good shape and still in style. Organizing back to school outfits will help you decide which, if any, items of clothing you need to purchase or replace, saving you time and stress.

Reach out to your child’s teachers.

Attend meet-the-teacher night, orientation or other welcome events, but don’t stop there. Make a point of introducing yourself and learning about class activities and expectations for the year.

Start sticking to a schedule.

Establish a routine at home and stick to it. Be consistent with bedtimes, waking times, and getting-ready patterns.

Plan lunches.

Unless your kid plans to eat cafeteria food every day, you’ll want to plan and pack a healthy and tasty lunch for them. Knowing what you plan to pack for them ahead of time will keep you from scrambling in the mornings trying to throw a bag lunch together.

Open the lines of communication.

As with any relationship, communication is key. Talk to your child about going back to school, expectations, and any questions or concerns they may have. Make sure they know they can come to you for help with anything, whether it be trouble understanding a homework assignment or interpersonal problems with others.

If you have any questions about any of the schools in South Sioux City, you can contact the South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce for more information, including contact information for the school, upcoming events, and how to get involved.

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day in South Sioux City

Mexican Independence Day is a holiday observed on September 16th that celebrates the “cry of independence,” which started the Mexican revolt against Spanish colonialism. September 16th is a national public holiday in Mexico, so banks, schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed in observance of the day.

The “cry of independence” is more commonly known as the Cry of Dolores, or Grito de Dolores in Spanish. A priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla hosted secret gatherings in his home to discuss whether it was better to obey or to revolt against a tyrannical government, as he defined the Spanish colonial government in Mexico. Hidalgo was in the small town of Dolores on September 15th, 1810, with other rebel leaders when they learned their conspiracy had been discovered. Hidalgo ran to the church, calling for all the people to gather, and from the pulpit called upon them to revolt. The people of Dolores – a poor and small group – all shouted in agreement. On the morning of September 16th, 1810, Hidalgo called upon the remaining locals to join him. Most did, and Hidalgo had a mob of around 600 men within minutes. The Cry of Dolores is what sparked the revolution, and is why September 16th is celebrated as Mexican Independence Day despite Mexico not gaining its independence for another 11 years. Although things didn’t end well for Hidalgo (he was captured, tried, and executed by the Spanish army ten months after his rebellion), he is remembered today as the “father of his country” and a great hero in the war for Mexican Independence.

Mexicans typically celebrate their Independence Day with fireworks, parties, food, music, and dancing. Flags, flowers, and decorations in red, white and green – the colors of the Mexican flag – are displayed all over cities and towns in Mexico. Whistles and horns are blown and confetti is thrown to celebrate this festive occasion. "Viva Mexico" or "Viva la independencia” are shouted amidst the crowds on this day, words believed to be declared by Hidalgo during his Grito de Dolores.

We invite residents of South Sioux City and visiting guests to join us for the Siouxland Multicultural Celebration of Independence! This event will take place September 17th and 18th and will be a celebration with traditional food, friendly soccer games, and Independence Proclamation by the Mexican Consul. For more information on the Multicultural Celebration of Independence, please visit our website:

http://visitsouthsiouxcity.com/event/siouxland-multicultural-celebration-of-independence/

Summer Activities in South Sioux City

It’s hot out there in Siouxland! Although it’s tempting to stay inside and enjoy the air conditioned comfort of your living room, there’s plenty going on in South Sioux City to get you out, about, and active. Take advantage of the beautiful summer weather with some of these great activities. After all, summer only comes around once a year!

Cool off at the Norm Waitt Sr YMCA: The local Y right here in South Sioux City has both an indoor and outdoor pool, and of course, lots of classes for fitness, fun, and childhood development. From swim to spin, the Y is a great place to get fit and make community connections. Visit http://nwsymca.org/ for pool and class schedules, and more!

Get active on the brand-new 14-mile trail loop: In late June 2016, South Sioux City held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly-completed biking, walking, and running trail that now encompasses the entire city. South Sioux City is famous for being a bicycle-friendly locale, but now the city has improved upon a good thing by connecting the existing bike trails into a contiguous route. You read about the inaugural ceremony and route here!

Disc Golf and PDGA Tournament: On July 16 & 17th, South Sioux City CVB and VOLO Sports proudly hosts the 3rd annual Bridge the Gap disc golf tournament. This is a PDGA Tier B tournament occurring over 2 days and 3 courses. Find out more about this fun event here!

For more disc golf, Crystal Cove is a PDGA-sanctioned, 18-basket course open to the public located within Crystal Cove Park. Come check it out!

Play ball: Golf, that is! South Sioux City boasts two golf courses to get you out on the green: Covington Links and South Ridge. Visit here for directions, fees, and membership information.  

Reflect on US history: Visit Freedom Park, where US servicemen and women are honored and remembered. Located on the bluffs of the Missouri River, Freedom Park contains a replica of the famous Vietnam Wall, as well as the John Douangdara Memorial War Dog Park. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the creation of this park in progress--there are more great things planned for this beautiful space, including an interpretive center, Korean War Memorial, and children’s play areas.   

Visit the Danish Alps State Recreation Area: Located less than 15 miles from South Sioux City, the Danish Alps offers camping, fishing, hiking, an equestrian trail, and more. Visit this natural area in our own backyard!

Do you have a favorite summer activity you’d like to suggest for Siouxland residents and visitors? Let us know in the comments section below! South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is dedicated to promoting business, tourism, and recreation in greater Siouxland. For more information, follow our blog or visit our website today.