To avoid a last-ditch panic, it’s worth making back-to-school preparations sooner rather than later.

All good things must come to an end, even the summer holidays.

While this may not be something you want to contemplate just yet, it pays to think ahead and avoid leaving everything to the last minute.

The return to drop-offs, pick-ups and homework can be a shock to the system, for the whole family.

So to help you and your offspring prepare as effectively as possible, here are three tips you can incorporate as the first day of the new term looms.

Check uniform and stationery supplies

Don’t make that classic (schoolboy/schoolgirl) error and leave it until the day before school to check that your child has the necessary uniform and supplies. 

Otherwise, you’ll face a scramble to buy everything they need (some items, especially school shoes, sell out quickly).

If your child has already been at school for a few years, have them try on their uniform well in advance.

It’s common for children to have growth spurts over the holidays. You may find that uniforms that once fitted easily are now eye-wateringly tight or too short.

Routine matters

Routines often go out the window during the holidays (and there’s no shame in that, that’s what holidays are for).

However, it’s good to re-establish a bedtime routine in advance so that your child is well-rested and ready for a return to the classroom.

Also, start to discourage long lie-ins (otherwise, getting everyone up and out of the house on the first day back is going to be tough).

Talk things through

If you’re lucky, your little one will be champing at the bit to be back in the playground surrounded by their friends.

But not everyone has such a positive experience, and children can feel nervous or anxious.

Ask your child how they’re feeling and let them know that if they have any concerns, you’re there to listen. Additionally, discuss the positives, mentioning any exciting trips or activities that they can look forward to.

It may also be worth reminding them that other activities, such as sports clubs, will be resuming as well.

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