It’s almost September again! So I just thought I’d put together a list of everything us mums need to have sorted so no one forgets anything that first day of school……
School Uniform
We’ll start with the biggy, the first thing on our back to school checklist is uniform, but let’s break that down, you’ll need
- Shirts
- Trousers/shorts for boys
- Trousers/skirts/dresses for girls……………remember to check your school rules, my eldest daughter now has to have a knee-length, non stretchy skirt!
- Cardigans or jumpers
- Socks/tights
- Most seniors require a blazor
- Tie if your school has them
- New pants?
- White bras? (this was a new one for me this year, but unfortunately kids grow up)
- PE kit
Personally I like to have 5 of most things so there is a fresh set for every day but I know this doesn’t suit everyone, we always get a full school year out of what buy so I find it fairly good value for money. My favourite places for uniform are Asda George, M&S and New Look for the eldest.
School Shoes
Sounds simple? urghh…………this is the bit I hate the most, unbranded black school shoes, the kids all want trainers, but they’re not allowed! Traditional school shoes are uncomfy, do they fit right? Will you spend a fortune to have them scuffed the first week back? Anyway remember to check your schools guidelines before you shop and good luck!!
School Bags
I think this is the children’s favourite bit, every September they get to pick a new school bag, its not essential but a nice new bag big enough to hold their PE kit, packed lunch and water bottle is normally a good buy………….Although the eldest is still debating whether she wants a handbag or backpack so we can’t tick this one off yet!
And don’t forget to check lunch bags and boxes, are they still clean? Can you get another year out of them?
Other Supplies
Water bottles still clean and OK?
Does your school provide stationary or do they need a pencil case, pen, pencil etc
Some seniors need a scientific calculator, check with your school.
Do you have a school book bag, is this still in good enough condition?
If you’re super organised you could sort winter coats, hats and gloves out now ready, but I prefer to give myself a break before moving on to that!
Are They Ready?
It’s normal for children to feel nervous or excited about the first day of school. Make sure to have conversations with your child about their emotions and let them know that it’s okay to feel that way. You can also help ease their anxiety by:
- Talking to them about what to expect on the first day of school
- Encouraging them to share their feelings with you or a trusted adult
- Reminding them of past successful transitions they have made
Going back to school means your child will have to be more independent. You can help them develop independence by:
- Encouraging them to pack their own school bag and lunch
- Teaching them how to manage their time effectively
- Allowing them to make some decisions on their own
Positive conversations with your child can help them feel more confident and excited about going back to school. Here are some ways to encourage positive conversations:
- Ask them about their day and listen actively
- Encourage them to talk about their interests and hobbies
- Help them practice social skills by role-playing conversations with peers
Are you ready?
We all let things slide through the holidays, late nights, lazy mornings, 300 snacks per pay and so on! but one of the best things you can do to make life easier for you and your child is get back into a routine!
Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. This helps regulate your child’s internal clock and ensures they get enough sleep. Create a schedule for meals, homework, and other activities, and stick to it as much as possible. Use a calendar or planner to keep track of important dates and events.
Lastly
Don’t forget to label EVERYTHING!!!
So are you ready? Let me know in the comments, have I forgotten anything? Please, please let me know if so!!
Not long left now.
Good luck!
