Back to school 2021, our tips for preparing well

At the end of summer, it's time to prepare your child to return to school. Perhaps you are in the midst of preparing for your summer vacation, and just the thought of school supplies and buying your child's new school bag is getting you down. But preparing for the new school year is the best way to make this potentially stressful time a little sweeter.

So, if you like everything to be in order before the big day, here are our tips to help you prepare for the next school year.

When to start preparing for the new school year?

There isn't a specific date to start preparing for your child's return to school. But it's important to keep in mind that the earlier you start, the better.

This is especially important if your child is moving to an important stage in their education, such as transitioning from primary to secondary school, from secondary to high school, or from high school to university.

You can start preparing for the new school year in the last month of summer, although we advise you to start shopping as early as June. Indeed, during the month of August, there is high demand for school supplies. You may find that certain items, like school bags, are in short supply due to high demand.

If your child hasn't received their list of supplies, you can request it directly from the school. And if you can't get it in advance, there are things you can buy, such as pens, markers, or even the school bag and pencil case.

Start adjusting bedtime before school starts

With more daylight hours, bedtimes are later. To help your child get back into a school routine, start turning off the lights 15 minutes earlier each night, until you return to a normal schedule.

Set your morning routine

Mornings will always be hectic. But they can be controlled if everyone knows the routine and the children are empowered to do their part.

Prepare a morning checklist for each child before school starts, then print it, laminate it, and place it where they can see it. Checklists are great for motivating children, and they also free you up, as you won't need to repeat the same directions every time.

Get to know the school

The first days of school can be scary. You can reduce some of this fear by visiting the school and maybe even having a video call with the teacher. Send an email in advance to find a good time.

Meet classmates

This advice applies especially to primary school children. If possible, organize a day or afternoon with one of your child's classmates. This way, on the first day of school, you'll know they won't be alone.

Add a new responsibility before school starts

A new school year is a great opportunity to neutrally add a new responsibility to your child's repertoire. This could be choosing and preparing their school clothes in advance, or even packing their school bag. It all depends on your child's age.

Make back-to-school shopping special

Once school has started, it's hard to find time for family moments. So, instead of doing back-to-school shopping at the same time as your regular errands, why not take the day to make it a special moment with each child, with a nice lunch where you talk about what the coming year holds? This could even become an annual tradition.

Create a workspace for homework

One of the keys to homework success is creating a quiet, distraction-free place for your child. Look for a quiet place (away from the TV and younger siblings), add good lighting, and make sure your child has a comfortable seat.

If schooling is virtual, designate a spot in your home specifically for school-related activities. This will make things more official and also help your child focus when they are in that spot.

Organize the closets

The new school year also means buying new clothes. But before you go shopping, consider clearing out the closets. This will help you know what your children need to avoid duplicates. While you're at it, make it easier for them to get dressed in the morning by making sure everything is within reach.

Prepare school lunches

If your child spent the previous year eating sandwiches, it may be time to rethink their midday meals. The new school year is an opportunity to prepare healthier lunches for your children.

Also, talk to your child about what they would like to eat for lunch and what makes a balanced meal. Children are more likely to eat what they feel has played a role in their decision.

Finally, consider the school canteen as a way to provide balanced meals for your child every day at lunchtime.

Buy your child an alarm clock

If your child doesn't have a clock or alarm in their room, you are missing out on a powerful tool to help them get things done. One with a timer can also be very effective in helping children stay on task or do 30 minutes of piano practice.

Here's another interesting advantage: you can also let the clock be the bad guy - it's not mom telling you it's bedtime, it's the clock!

Do something fun

Before summer fades away, take the time to do something special with the children. Whether it's taking a day off work so you can all spend a day at the beach as a family, make sure you have a memory to look back on once you're back in the swing of school.