It’s not really surprising that August is observed as National Back to School Month. After all, this is the month during which people are either getting their children ready for school or their children have already gone back to school. Either way, it’s a month to make sure that returning students have everything they need for a successful academic year.

This includes making sure they have the backpacks, notebooks, pens, and pencils they need, as well as ensuring that they have their physicals and up-to-date vaccinations. After all, the beginning of a new school year is the perfect time to start out on the right foot.

The History of National Back to School Month

Although the origins of this observance month have been lost to history, we do know that it dates back to the late 1950s or early 1960s. It was a time to get parents ready for their children to return to school, and it has been observed for this reason ever since.

Amazing Facts About Schools Around the World

Okay, since we’re on the subject of schools, we thought we’d dig up some information about schools around the world. Although most people think of the schools they or their children attend as the template for schools everywhere, that is certainly not the case. Schools across the world may share similar attributes, but there are also some pretty amazing differences too. Let’s find out more.

• The school in Phuma Changthang, Tibet, is the school with the highest elevation in the world. It’s 5,373 meters above sea level.
• The oldest school in the world is Shishi High in Chengdu, China. It was established in 194 AD.
• In France, mealtime is considered to be part of the curriculum.
• South Korean students are expected to help clean the classroom after lessons.
• Russian children start school on September 1st. This is Knowledge Day.
• French children only go to school four days a week, but each of those days is two hours longer.

Observing National Back to School Month

During this month, parents are encouraged to do what they can to ensure that their children are ready for the upcoming school year. This means making a supply list, buying school supplies, and helping children learn their schedules.

Parents who want to spread the word about this month and help other parents get a heads-up in preparing their children for school can do so using the hashtag #BackToSchoolMonth on social media.