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Mumii 8
It can be a trying time, the first days of a new term, in particular the first few days of the Autumn term. Whether they are going to school for the first time or changing year groups, it can be a time of worry for both parents and children alike.
Here are our top tips for making that first day back less stressful.
During the holidays some of the school routines might have slipped, so you might have a little bit of work to do to get the kids ready.
Catching those Zzzzzs!
It’s important to get your children back into a sleeping routine before the first day back. This ensures they are well rested and prepared for the day ahead. As an extra bonus, more sleep for the children generally means more sleep for parents too!
To encourage a better sleeping routine make the pre-sleep environment calming and relaxing. During the last hour before bedtime you should cut down on technology. Instead think about replacing this with bathtime, reading books and milky drinks.
Do the clothes still fit?
Children have a habit of going through a growth spurt during the summer break. It’s important therefore that you check to make sure the clothes still fit before the start of the new term.
If you need to buy new items you might need to look at name tags too. There are lots of great items on the market to make parents’ lives easier, ranging from pre-printed iron in labels, to fabric stamps. Lots of parents 'cheat' and use a Sharpie pen. Teachers LOVE clothes to be named so don't forget!
School supplies
Do they have everything they need? School bag, pencil case and books.
It can be a bit daunting, but usually the school sends a letter at the end of the previous term with a list of things they will need.
Feeding time
You might need to invest in a new lunch bag, so make sure you check out the old one before the first day back.
Have a think about what to make them beforehand, it might even be worth trying it out before they start back to make sure they like it. If they are old enough get them involved in helping butter bread or putting things in the bag.
It doesn’t have to be cheese-spread or ham sandwiches everyday though. There are some great recipes online for children.
Back to school emotions
Some children will feel apprehensive about going back to school, especially if it’s a new school or class. Focus on the positives about school. Highlight the great things about starting back, chatting with old friends, meeting new classmates, buying cool school supplies and their great new clothes.
Children pick up on parental anxieties and tensions very quickly, so make sure the back to school preparation is as positive and fun as possible. Try not to leave things to the last minute and panic. This could make them associate going to school with negativity.
Beating the bugs
GPs see a surge of common colds, head lice, impetigo and other childhood illnesses a week or two into the September term. Whilst it’s impossible to stay free from all these, try to help prevent catching one.
Make sure you teach children to wash their hands regularly; this will keep pesky germs at bay. Keeping your child active and feeding them a healthy diet full of vitamins will also help by boosting their immune systems.
So with most children going back to school this week, let us know below your top tips to make this transition an easy one.
