Here’s how to get a smooth return to school
A parenting expert has shared her top tips for ensuring the first week back at school goes smoothly – from first-time schoolgoers to returning pupils.
Kirsty Ketley, 42, of Cranleigh, Surrey, has revealed her best advice on ensuring a smooth return to school.
The mother of two children, who operates Auntie K’s childcare and consultancy service, expresses that the beginning of the September term can be quite overwhelming.
Now, Surrey-based Kirsty, who is mother to Ella, 10, and Leo, six, has shared her sure-fire way to get the kids – and yourself – prepped for heading back to school as the new term approaches.
Here she reveals how to make the start of school as smooth as possible for your little ones (and you!)…
Kirsty, from Surrey, emphasizes the importance of inspecting school bags prior to going back to school, just in case there happens to be a moldy banana that is six weeks old.
1. Re-introduce routines
Reestablishing regular sleep and meal schedules can be challenging, but you can attempt to gradually adjust bedtime and meal times to their usual routine in the week leading up to it.
If you are not present, have enjoyable activities scheduled, or are experiencing difficulties, there is no need to worry because when they return to school, they will be so exhausted that they will easily adapt.
2. Check, double check and triple check
Make sure to gather all the necessary items for your child a week in advance, allowing enough time to obtain anything that may have been forgotten.
Please verify if your child had any tasks or assignments to complete during the holiday break, such as a holiday journal, a ‘All about me’ questionnaire, or any items from their vacation to share and discuss.
3. Label, label, label
Ensure that all belongings are labeled with your child’s name, taking care to ensure that the labeling is not easily visible to outsiders. For instance, avoid placing their name on their bag or lunch bag, where it may be visible to strangers.
Prepare in advance the evening prior.
Make sure to prepare your uniform and bags the night before, in case you forgot to do so at the end of the term.
Please inspect your child’s backpack for any overlooked snacks.
There’s nothing worse than finding a mouldy banana or apple core as you go to pack their bag six weeks later.
Kirsty, accompanied by her children Ella, aged ten, and Leo, aged six, expresses that returning to school after a lengthy summer break can be intimidating and slightly stressful.
Returning to school can be a challenging period for both parents and children, according to Kirsty. Therefore, it is important to take care of both parties.
5. Ease anxieties
If your child is feeling uneasy about going back to school or beginning school, make arrangements for a pleasant activity that you can do together with them after school during the initial week or on the weekend. This will give them something to anticipate.
Ensure that your child has a clear understanding of their daily schedule, including the time they should depart from home, who will be picking them up from school, the route they will take if they are going on their own, and the timing of any extracurricular activities they are involved in.
If you require after-school care, please make a reservation.
Please attempt to schedule a playdate with friends before coming back, as this can assist in alleviating any social anxiety your child might be experiencing.
6. For new starters
Parents and children embarking on their first day of school may experience heightened concerns.
If individuals feel anxious or upset about bidding farewell, provide ample reassurance, but avoid lingering near the classroom entrance.
It is most effective to bid a swift farewell and allow the staff to assist your child.
If you’re feeling concerned, you can give the school a call later in the morning to inquire about how your child is doing. However, it’s important to note that the majority of children adjust and adapt within a few weeks.
Your child will experience an extreme level of fatigue. If they haven’t dozed off at school, they might do so during their afternoon snack. Therefore, be ready to adjust both snack time and bedtime earlier if you notice them having difficulty.
If it’s a code or if it’s a math formula, say “I cannot reword”.
Having a snack readily available at the school entrance can assist in reducing any post-school emotional breakdowns. Avoid bombarding your child with inquiries; they will share about their day when they feel prepared.
Kirsty regularly offers helpful tips to struggling parents on how to manage the burden of family life
7. Look after yourself
Parents who are separating from their children for the first time may experience similar concerns.
As a parent, entering the school gates can feel similar to navigating school in the past, attempting to discover where you belong and who will become your closest companion at the school gates.
Start by smiling at the people around you. It’s likely that at least one person will smile back and might even start a conversation with you.
Please find a Facebook group for the class where you can stay updated on current events and also connect with other parents.
Do not fear your child’s teacher, as they will gladly respond to inquiries and provide reassurance.
Don’t worry about your child not eating, drinking or using the toilet – school has a magical way of making these things happen and if their teacher is worried, they will soon tell you.
Do not make assumptions about other parents based on their appearance. Instead, take the initiative to start a conversation as they are likely experiencing similar challenges.
