Komal Bajaj

The summer holidays are nearing an end and it is that time of the year where lazy mornings, pool days and endless hours of play are coming to a close. With a new school year starting soon, there’s a lot to prepare for which requires planning and preparation days in advance. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered! Our checklist will help you stay on top of your game and smoothly transition you and your children into the new school year.

Start school sleep routine

Get out of the summer mindset by kickstarting a morning and bedtime routine so the sleep cycles are adjusted and there wont be difficulties in waking up, and staying fresh and active on the first days of school. Start by implementing a bedtime, waking them up around school hours and planning activities as if it were a school day.

Speak to the school

While there may be things you as a parent need to prepare for, it is extremely important that you reach out to the school to understand what the new school year will have in store for your child from learning, sports, activities and excursions. Share these details with your child and start getting them excited.

Note down important dates

After speaking to the school, don’t forget to note down important school dates on your calendar so there are no surprises at a later stage. Work and personal events will come up and its best to plan ahead of time.

Shop for supplies

Create a list of school supplies your child may need for his new school year and ask your child if there is anything they need, get them involved in the shopping. Nothing like buying new backpacks and lunchboxes that can get your child excited to start school.  

Meal Planning

Start planning for meals, write down healthy lunch and snack ideas which your child will enjoy eating in school. For new ideas, check out Bounce’s blog on healthy lunch box ideas on hellobounce.com

Plan the outfits or buy school uniforms

Most early learning establishments do not have uniforms but there are a few preschools who do require them as part of their guidelines. Reach out to them to see where you can buy them and get them before school starts in case they require alterations.  

Plan school drop off and pick ups

Carpooling with other parents on some days is a great way to be sustainable, save time and encourage your child to make friends. Having other children in the car can help with social anxiety and create a positive association with school. It would be advisable to plan this before school starts by mapping out a schedule for each parent.

Enrol for after school activities

You may want to enrol your child in after school activities like tennis, swimming, drama or dance and it would make good sense to sign them up before the semester starts as there may be limited slots or better timings.

Pack the school bag

Do this with your child the day or two before, include some treats or toys.

A trial run

This may not be necessary but if this is your first time or if you have enrolled your child in a new school then this will help in planning your day. A trial run of the pick up and drop off to school and after school activities will help map out your day and you will always be on time for your child.  

Encourage your child to share his fears

Talk to your child and encourage them to share how they are feeling about starting school. Praise and reward them for sharing their feelings and problem solve any of their fears. Focus on the positive aspects of school and ask them to list two things they are excited for at school.

One Last Hurrah!

Just because school is starting and its back to prepping for the weekly routine, doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Plan a movie night, pool day or a water park adventure, let the kids loose!