Don’t leave your back-to-school prep to the last minute

In less than a week September will be making an appearance (I know, where did the Summer go?) which only means one thing.(two if you love Autumn)

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

And when it arrives, you’ll be punching the air at the prospect of your little darlings returning to the classroom after a seven-week break.

The last thing you (or they) will feel like doing is embarking on a mad dash for kit and caboodle the day before they go back.

We know too well how hectic it can be. Two of our boys are starting Senior and Primary School so it will be all systems go in the Butler household.

Here are a few ways to avoid last-minute tantrums in St Neots and beyond . . .

Get the Uniform Sorted

If you are still to receive any online orders chase them up with any companies just to make sure your order is on its way. Add name labels to everything, so your child’s clothing doesn’t disappear into the vortex that is lost property. If you don’t have a fancy label making gadget (I envy those mums) then a good old sharpie pen on the care labels will do the trick.

Stationery 

If the school has given you a list of items that your child will need next term – such as scissors, glue, compass, notebooks – act like a mafia boss and get it sorted in one hit. It’s especially important they have all the gear as most schools will still have strict rules regarding sharing due to covid.

Tech

Some schools expect children to have a laptop or tablet. If you need to make a purchase, do so now and get the techie person in your house to set it up.

Talk to your Child

Children can feel uneasy or anxious about returning to the classroom after an extended break (especially if they’re starting a new school). Discuss with your child what they can expect and what they can look forward to, such as school trips or being back with their friends.

If they are starting a new school or going up to Secondary check out the school website for any virtual tours and spend some time together exploring.

Get Back into a Routine

Start clawing back the bedtime routine – otherwise, getting your child out of bed on the first morning back will be hellish. Do this progressively by getting them into bed 15 minutes earlier each night until you’ve reached your desired ‘normal’ bedtime.

Travel Cards

Many transport providers require over-11s to have a travel ID card to use their services. If your child will be travelling to school by train or bus, check out what kind of pass/ID they’ll need and do the relevant admin. Make sure they have it ready every morning and keep it in a safe place, so it doesn’t go missing.

Have a Dry Run

If your child will be travelling to school without you, have at least one practice run before the ‘big day’. Being familiar with the route and modes of transport that they will be using will boost their confidence. It will also give them an idea of what time they need to leave home in the morning.

From us both here at Butler Residential, enjoy the last week or so you have with your children at home and good luck on everyone’s first day back.

Laura & Barry

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