Back to School: Essential tips for parents and kids

As the final days of the school holidays tick away, families across the country are shifting gears from lazy mornings and play-filled afternoons to lunchbox prep and early bedtimes. The transition back to school doesn’t have to be a mad scramble with a bit of planning, both parents and children can ease into the new term feeling ready and even a little excited.

Here’s a handy to-do list compiled by tips from a group of parents to help you and yours find your rhythm again before the school bell rings.

FOR PARENTS: KEEPING IT TOGETHER (MOSTLY)

1. Uniforms and supplies: check start with the basics: Make sure uniforms still fit, shoes haven’t mysteriously shrunk, and socks actually match. If stationery went missing or mysteriously walked away last term, now’s the time to stock up.

2. Label, Label, Label: Lunchboxes, water bottles, pencil cases, anything portable should be labelled.

3. Refresh the lunchbox game: Get ahead by shopping for your little one’s lunch box. Try prepping a few freezer-friendly snacks or testing out fun new sandwich combos kids notice when lunch gets a glow-up.

4. Reset the sleep schedule: Late holiday nights make for rough school mornings. Gradually shift bedtimes earlier in the week leading up to the first day this way, the school-morning shock is less brutal for everyone.

5. Talk goals and worries: Before the term begins, carve out time to talk. Ask your child what they’re looking forward to, and listen to any anxieties. Sometimes just chatting about it can make a big difference.

6. Organise transport and routine: Lift clubs, aftercare, sports days double-check your transport plans are still good to go. Revisit your morning and after-school routines too, especially if things felt chaotic last term.

FOR KIDS: GEARING UP FOR A NEW TERM

1. Pack and prepare: Get your backpack sorted! Make sure you’ve got your books, stationery, timetable, and anything special for your first day.

2. Uniform planning: Lay out your uniform, help mommy and daddy clean your shoes, it all helps you walk in with confidence.

3. Make your homework space yours: Decorate your "working" corner with drawings, stickers or even a small plant. A comfy space can help make homework feel less like a chore.

4. Start sleeping earlier: We know holidays mean late nights, but going to bed just a little earlier every night can help make waking up way less painful.

5. Set a goal for the term: Whether it’s reading more books, getting better at maths, or joining a club, choose something that excites you and share it with someone you trust.

6. Plan something fun: Pick a fun after-school or weekend activity to look forward to. Even a trip to the park or movie night can keep spirits high as you settle back into school life.

BONUS TIP: Print this list, stick it on the fridge, and tick off each item as you go. Getting back into routine doesn’t have to be boring turn it into a game, celebrate small wins, and give yourselves grace.

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za

Weekend Argus