Whether they’re off to school for the first time, or simply the first day back after the summer holidays, organising the autumn can be a real source of stress for parents. From buying equipment to your child’s routine, here are our 10 tips for a successful start to the new school year!
I. A FEW WEEKS BEFORE THE START OF THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR
1. Draw up a checklist of essential items to take with you
Preparing for the start of the new school year means making a…TO-DO LIST. Write down all the things you need to do, think about or buy. This way, you won’t forget anything and you’ll have more peace of mind.
2. Think about equipment
Generally, the school will provide you with a list of the equipment your child will need throughout the year. Follow this, opt for basics and allow your child to buy something they love, such as a school bag, snack box or water bottle.
3. Think about labelling or personalising your child’s belongings
When it comes to your child’s belongings (clothes, school bag or other items), make a point of labelling them. Between the ages of 3 and 11, children find it hard to keep track of their things. Labelling or personalising their belongings helps teachers identify them more quickly and makes it easier for you to find them if they are lost or forgotten. Our personalised first-name labels are ideal!
4. Encourage them to be more independent
Going to school is a way of growing up and becoming more independent. To prepare for the start of the new school year, don’t hesitate to encourage your child to do this and give them a few small responsibilities. You can also use a “routine chart”, for mornings and evenings, personalised to suit your child’s age. It’s a fun way of encouraging them to carry out their daily tasks.
II. A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE START OF THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR
5. (Re)immerse your child in the rhythm of school
For a successful start to the new school year, whatever their age, children need a set rhythm for a smoother return. At least a week before, (re)acclimatise them to a “school” pace of life in terms of mealtimes, bedtime and waking routine. School goes at a fast pace for children, and it’s important that they return in good shape.
6. Prepare fun school-related activities
As part of your child’s school routine and back-to-school preparations, offer them a range of arts and crafts activities.
For example, help little ones make their own weekly planner so that they can keep track of their time: school days, extra-curricular activities, weekends, etc. This will help them understand how the school routine works and accept this new pace of life.
For older children, you can offer to personalise certain objects that are useful in class — such as their textbook/diary, folders or pencil case — and encourage a positive attitude towards school.
7. Help them prepare their school bag for the start of the new school year
Preparing for the start of the new school year also means getting things ready for the big day: school bag, outfit and snack. Suggest you do it together so they feel involved and happy about going — or going back — to school. This is another step towards independence. Also check out our list of essentials to have in your pencil case!
8. Make your child’s snack with them
Most children have a sweet tooth and can’t resist a cupcake or a square of chocolate. Suggest they make their own snack. Choose something with a long shelf life so they can enjoy it all week long, such as madeleines, chocolate biscuits or crepes.
III. IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL TIME!
9. Wake them up gently
For a successful start to the new school year, wake your child up early and don’t wait until the last minute. Take the time to wake them, cuddle them and reassure them. Prepare a full breakfast to fill them with energy. Finally, help them put the finishing touches to their school bag by adding something to drink and snack on during the day.
You might want to use our 100% customisable kid’s water bottle: it slips easily into your children’s school bag to keep them hydrated throughout the day.
10. Take your child to school
Reassure them, be patient and stay positive. Take a few minutes, visit their classroom and discover their new environment together. Talk to your child’s teacher, introduce them to some of their new friends and that’s it: you can leave them in peace!
We hope this little list of tips will be useful — or has been useful — in organising your children’s new school year!