Back to school: 10 things to prep you might not have thought of

School list – check. Uniforms – check. Lunchboxes – check. All seems to be in order, and is in reality, but a little extra prep or rather, thinking ahead never killed anyone. On the contrary, being armed with a few extra bits and pieces and strategies makes me feel secure.

Let’s dive in to my back to school prep tips which are not the usual.

1. Buy envelope-sized button folders

One for each kid is ideal. Get them labeled with your child’s name, and keep a pencil with a rubber at hand to write in (and erase) whatever it is you need to write. I use these to send notes, outing money and forms to school. Beats using all that paper, plus, if we have a leaky bottle (or lunch!) disaster, this stays in one piece.

2. For the littles – spare clothes

You know how it goes with kindergarten-aged kids. They might have a tiny accident that does not warrant you going to school if you can avoid it. That means packing a spare set of underpants and shorts (or trousers – I pack leggings for my daughter as they take up less space). Teach your kids how to change themselves in the event of an accident. Besides having to abandon your place of work, or home, or having to frantically contact someone else to go and save the day at school, kids will be very quick to realise that a little accident might mean a visit from mama. Which is not always a good thing.

3. Rain, rain go away

Not really. I love rain as much as I love sun 🙂 Keeping your kids dry and warm is important however. If your kids are older and able to use an umbrella safely, label and pack a compact one into their bag. Smaller kids? Pack a little raincoat instead. Unless it is full-on winter, in which case, you’ve probably thought of buying a waterproof, thick jacket. Another great tip? Pack a pair of socks. Having wet socks on all day is the worst!

4. Keep extra stock

Think of the things your kids use over and over. I like to buy a spare art apron, rubbers, sharpeners, rulers, file paper. Some I keep more stock of. I absolutely hate popping in to the stores if I can avoid it. I can think of better ways to use my time 😉

5. Lunchbox fillers

Next time you shop at the supermarket, buy stock to last few a few days until you do this again. Think crackers, pretzels, breadsticks, hummus, cheese (once it’s less hot), rice cakes, corn cakes, muesli bars, raisins, dried fruit and cereal.

6. Design a simple lunch menu

This sure saves you a lot of thinking! Think of 3 basic mains, such as patties, pasta or bread and rotate. Add fresh fruit and 2 or 3 lunchbox fillers (see above). Depending on the appetite and age of your child, add another main for the second break, or increase lunchbox fillers accordingly.
If you’re struggling with meals, or would love to simplify the whole process so it runs smoother – I’ve got the solution for you. Check out my program – Dinner in a Flash here!

7. Start moving into school night bedtimes

This back to school prep tip is so important!
If you extend bedtimes during the summertime, it is a good idea to start moving into school night bedtimes gradually. Going from a 10pm bedtime to an 8pm bedtime overnight is rough. Instead, plan ahead and start moving forward in 20 or 30 minute increments. It’s much easier on the child, and on you too (yes, this also counts for the adults!)

8. Prepare your kids for the routine

The change of routine can be a shock for some children. Some do embrace it, but whichever category your child falls into it is always a good idea to prepare them for the back-to-school routine. Include your child in the routine. The morning and evening routines should be mutually established. My 4 year old is far too young to decide certain things, but I do give her options. Think of things such as the best place to prepare the uniform in the evening, when to brush her hair etc, so they can feel empowered, in control and able to make decisions. Older kids can establish their own routine and discuss it with you to ensure that their plan falls in line with what they should be up to.

9. Child’s first ever day at school?

I know mama, you’re anxious. And sad. Happy, and excited. I’ve been there. My advice to you is too long to be written in one paragraph, so instead, I’m going to suggest you read a blog post I wrote when Nina herself was 3 years old and admitted into her first year of kindergarten. It is called ‘How to prepare your three year old for preschool’ and the tips are pure gold.

10. Lunchbox cards!

Let’s end this with a little fun! Lunchbox notes are a great way to put a smile on your child’s face 🙂
Surprise your little darlings by popping one of these adorable lunchbox notes in their lunchbag, diary, pencil case or schoolbag!
If your child is too little to understand, ask their teacher to read them their note. A little thought goes a long way!

This back to school prep is bound to give you a little more confidence. Happy back to school mamas!

Love,

Nakita xxx

PS: On Wednesday I’m sharing our back-to-school morning routine, and how we keep it as simple as possible to get everyone out of the door on time. I also share invaluable tips on how to make mornings with kids smoother. Tune in to get the lowdown at 4:30pm Malta time (GMT +2). See you there!