How to beat the school rush

There’s always frantic parents stressing about the endless errands and obligations that need to be completed a week before school starts for the New Year.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you want to be that parent who is on top of everything and ultimately stress free.

These five items are an important addition to your to-do list.

1. Make sure to get your child’s hair, cut and tidy before the new term- Do not make the mistake of leaving back-to-school haircuts for the day before school starts. You will only end up in long queues when your child should have a relaxed and early night before the first day of school
2. Shop early for school supplies – The best time to buy school supplies is right now. Do this in advance and avoid busy stores where other parents are queuing up because they left it for the last minute
3. Set your schedule – Now is the time to figure out carpools, after school activities, and other calendar management events. A little time spent on the schedule now will save you plenty later on.
4. Get your kids in gear – Don’t wait until the week school starts to try to get your kids to go to bed and wake up at a decent hour. Start easing back into routines now. Make sure they get enough sleep and are prepared for the new term.
5. If your kids have been spending all day on the computer and television, start scaling back on screen time and work in reading. Make one change at a time every few days to help your kids adjust.

If you start easing into the switch now, you can make sure your transition is stress-free and that’s a reason to smile.