How to prepare your child for going back to school

Start easing into the back-to-school routine a few days before school starts – to make it easier for everyone to get used to the idea after a long break.  

• Make sure school uniforms are ready to go and that all school supplies are labelled with your child’s name.
• If your child uses a laptop for school, make sure it is working and fully charged. Also put new batteries in any calculators – just in case.
• Tidy up any homework areas/tables – during the holidays that may have become a dumping ground for things such as keys, bags, and mail. How to avoid homework stress
• Make sure your WiFi is working well – if you are having any problems, contact your provider sooner rather than later, to avoid homework meltdowns.
• Have a designated spot for pens, paper, and books, plus any other materials they need for homework.  
• If your kids aren’t happy at the prospect of returning to school – remind them of the positives such as seeing their friends and/or their favourite teacher.
• Ease into school bedtimes. A good night's sleep is so important for a successful day at school, but you may have been a bit more relaxed about bedtimes during the holidays. Start moving bedtimes forward 15 minutes each day until you reach your preferred bedtime.  
• No electronics at least an hour before lights out. Find a central location (not in the bedroom) where the kids can charge their devices and avoid middle-of-the-night temptations.
• Talk about lunches and the sort of things they will be allowed in their lunchbox – and how often (if at all) they can order from the school canteen. Lunches are best organised the night before to avoid a morning rush.  
• Plan a morning routine and make sure everyone knows it (including the amount of time to spend in the shower!). Being frazzled and in a rush isn’t helpful for anyone.  
• Make sure uniforms and backpacks are ready the night before as part of the night-time routine.  

Good luck!

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