BACK TO SCHOOL TIP

*4. In the first few weeks, invite the families of your children's classmates over for coffee and muffins. Kids love to connect with peers in their own home.

(Source: dash magazine & cool background wallpaper)

BACK TO SCHOOL TIP

*3. Let your child pick one new item that is just for fun. (I love the dollar store or bin for this!)

(Source: dash magazine & kaboom wallpaper)

MORE BACK TO SCHOOL RECIPES!!!

(Source: photo-google+)

RICE CRISPY CHICKEN

*Back To School Collection- A healthy alternative to the classic version!!!

4 cups rice crispy cereal (sometimes you can find brown rice crispies at natural food stores)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 pounds chicken pieces, boneless skinless, washed and patted dry
3 TB margarine or butter, melted

1. Place plain rice crispiest cereal in shallow dish or pan.
2. Stir in garlic powder. Set aside.
3. In medium mixing bowl, beat egg and milk slightly. Add flour, salt, pepper and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth. Dip chicken in egg batter then coat with cereal mixture until covered.
4. Place in single layer, in shallow baking pan coated with cooking spray. Drizzle with melted margarine. Bake at 350 degrees about 1 hour or until chicken is tender, no longer pink and juices run clear. Do not cover pan or turn chicken while baking. Serve hot. Enjoy!!!

(Source: dash magazine-blog.trysensa.com & photo also)

BACK TO SCHOOL TIP

*2. Have a special lunch while school shopping, even as simple as a picnic on a mall bench.

(Source: dash magazine & google+ photo)

Margherita Pizza Dip

*Back To School Collection-HANDS-ON: 10 min *TOTAL: 30 min *SERVES: 6-8

8 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
8 oz Italian-Blend grated cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
+ Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup jarred marinara sauce
4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
+ Fresh basil, for topping
+ Bread sticks, for serving

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together ricotta,Italian, and Parmesan cheeses in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper.
2. Evenly spread cheese mixture in a deep-dish pie plate or 1-1/2-to 2-quart baking dish. Spoon sauce over cheese, leaving a clean border around edge. Top with mozzarella cheese.
3. Bake about 20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Top with basil and serve with bread sticks for dipping.

(Source: dash magazine & photo also-Donna & Chad Elick)

BACK TO SCHOOL TIP

*1. Donate good-quality school supplies from last year (backpacks, lunch boxes) before buying new ones.

(Source: dash magazine & kaboom wallpaper)