Back-to-school tips

Before we know it, the summer holidays will have gone by in the blink of an eye, and we’ll be embarking on the back-to-school rush. As you prepare to enjoy the last few weeks with your child or children, it’s important to take small steps now to help them prepare for the new academic year ahead.

Getting ready to return to school often focuses on the practical elements, such as new uniforms, a well-stocked pencil case and packed lunch ideas, and while these are important, it can be easy for parents to overlook any emotional and mental support your child may also benefit from. 

Here are some handy tips to help get your child ready for the return to the classroom. 

Get organised together 

Preparing to go back to school can feel like a chore, so instead, tackle it together and make it fun. Turn a trip to Clive Mark to buy a new uniform or stationery into a day out with a special treat for them, include them in decisions and encourage them to write a list of the things they need.

Getting them involved can make them feel more independent and confident, and by making it less of a chore, it becomes an easier and more relaxed experience. 

Ask them how they’re feeling

A few weeks before the end of the summer holiday, start asking your child how they feel about going back to school. Keep the chat light and informal, and reassure them that they can share any concerns they may have, such as being worried about fitting in, adjusting to a new teacher or keeping up with work.

Ask them open questions, and take time to listen to their answers before jumping in with solutions. Share your own experiences or liken it to past events, so they can help alleviate their worries. 

Prepare for big transitions

For some children, returning to school can be a big change. They may be starting somewhere new or moving from primary school to secondary education, or it may be their first day at reception. This can cause all sorts of unknown feelings about what to expect. While some children thrive on change, others can find it a real challenge, so make sure you check in with your child to see how they feel about it.

Offer them reassurance that it may take a little time to settle in, but once they have, they’ll enjoy it. Also, consider doing things like practising the school journey together so they get used to the trip, and it feels more familiar when they do it on their first day on their own. 

Rebuild routines slowly

Getting back into the school routine and early bedtimes can be tricky for some children - especially after weeks of late nights and lie-ins. 

Help your child settle back into a good routine by slowly reintroducing things such as set meal times, bedtimes, and reducing screen time to help their brains wind down. 

Allow them to express their emotions 

When a child is feeling emotional, they may become clingy, distant, quiet or have mood swings. These are all signs of emotional adjustment. It’s essential that you make space for your child’s emotions and encourage them to share them so you can work through them together and help squash any anxieties they may have. 

Buy your school uniform before the back-to-school rush

Heading back to school will be a lot less stressful if you’re prepared and organised. And stocking up on school uniforms is key. Visit one of our shops or visit our online shop and tick ‘ordering school uniform’ off your checklist.