Life is about to hit full throttle once again, as parents and children alike wave goodbye to the holidays and prepare for a new school term. But switching from holiday-mode to a school schedule can be stressful for everyone in the household. To avoid morning mayhem, here are some useful tips to ease you back into the school-day routine.
Have they got everything they need?
It may seem like an obvious question, but there’s plenty of things to take into consideration, such as:
Books and stationery
Ensure they’ve got all the pencils, pens and other stationery they’ll need, and a pencil case or similar that’s still in good enough condition to house them all. Then check their work books – make sure they’ve got plenty of room in the right type of exercise books (yes, there are different types) for the term ahead, and cover them in a wrapping that they’ll remember.
Lunch box
There are many options out there to keep their recess, lunch and drinks in, so make sure they’ve got adequate space for all the sustenance that their growing bodies will need. If you do need to buy anything new, it’s a good idea to test if your kids can open and close them correctly – it may seem simple to you, but for your child, there might only be one click between a spill, or them not being able to get to the goods at all.
And of course, you’ll need to fill those lunchboxes up, so be sure the pantry and fridge are stocked with plenty of good food, fruit and snacks ready for the week ahead.
School uniform
They may have only been wearing them weeks ago, but kids grow fast. Get your kids to put on their uniforms and make sure that they’re still fitting well, and that there’s no rips, tears or stains that you might not have noticed previously. And make sure their shoes are fitting and looking their best – if they’ve got new ones, it’s a good idea to wear them in for at least a full day prior to school going back.
Labels
Look at all the things listed above. All of them should be labelled. Pencil cases, lunch boxes, uniforms, etc. Not surprisingly, schools are full of children who, to the untrained eye, look a bit like your children, so it’s a great idea to label, label and label again everything that they take to school to make sure there are no mix ups.
How are they getting to school?
Going solo
If they're walking, riding or catching public transport for the first time, it’s best to do a run through with them to make sure they know exactly where they’re going. Make a point of pointing out landmarks along the way, as that’s the easiest way for kids to remember where they’re going. And if there are any other kids nearby that may be available to buddy up, that’s always a good way to help make sure they’ll find their way to school.
Your driving
If you’re driving them to school, it’s a good idea to make sure that your car is ready for the trip. You can book your car in for a service at one of our car servicing centres, where they can also make sure that any child seats are properly installed and in good order.
And, it may sound silly, but make sure you’ve got enough fuel for the morning run – our mechanics are no strangers to rescuing parents on their drop off run. Speaking of, it’s a good idea to download the my nrma app, which will help you find the best fuel prices and parking near you.
The night before
Now it’s time to pack their bags and check that they’ve got everything they need. Pack their lunch and have it ready to go in the fridge – this could save you a lot of time and hassle in the morning. Lay out school uniforms and talk to your kids about the morning routine ahead. Then make sure they’re in bed early – we’re not on holidays anymore, children.
A few toilet tips
You know best where your kids are at with toilet training, but everyone makes mistakes. It’s a good idea to pack a spare pair of undies and socks (yes, even socks, because if they do have an accident, that’s where it’ll likely end up). If you’ve got boys, make sure they’re comfortable and confident at a urinal.
Now relax – they’re in good hands
Once you’ve got them safely on their way, take a load off. It’s natural to worry, especially for the littlest ones, but they’ve got staff and teachers looking out for them, and they’re off making new friends and having exciting adventures. So get ready to hear all about it at dinner time.
