Returning to school after a long holiday can be exciting for some children but challenging for others. Parents often feel the pressure too. These handy tips can help the whole family ease back into school routines with less stress and more positivity.

Top back-to-school tips

1. Mark it down
   Create a back-to-school advent calendar to count down the days with excitement, adding small treats behind each date.
2. Adjust bedtime routines
   Gradually reintroduce earlier bedtimes a week before school starts. Reinforce school-night rules, including reduced screen time and sugary snacks before bed.
3. Have a chat
   Talk about what your children miss and look forward to at school. Remind them of daily routines and encourage them to write or draw about their holiday for their teacher.
4. Storytime
   Ease anxieties with bedtime stories about going back to school. Tailor them to include your child as the main character for a personal touch.
5. Offer something to look forward to
   Highlight exciting school activities like extra murals, class trips, or leadership opportunities. Plan family outings for weekends to keep the anticipation alive.
6. Get organised early
   Review school supplies and uniforms with your children. Early shopping can make this task enjoyable and stress-free.
7. Provide a comfort item
   For younger children, a comfort object like a blanket or favourite toy can ease their transition. Adding a small “good luck charm” to their lunchbox also helps.
8. Start the day right
   On the first day, wake up earlier and leave for school with plenty of time to spare. Parents should stay calm and composed to set a positive tone for the week ahead.