Back to School: everything you need for the new school year
The back to school season is an exciting time – for you and your kids. To help them get off to a great start, whether it's their first day or they're moving up a class, you'll find tips here for all their learning essentials.
Packed with knowledge: the right school bag
The perfect school bag is the most important back-to-school accessory. After all, your child will be carrying it on their back every day, filled with all their school supplies. That's why it shouldn't just look cool, but also be extra ergonomic. School bags that meet safety standards for visibility and have an ergonomic design are best. Padded, easily adjustable straps, a back-friendly design, as well as reflectors and fluorescent material are a must. Choose a model that is the same width as your child's shoulders and sits snugly on their back. Also, make sure the bag weighs no more than 1.5 kg when empty. Lots of pockets and compartments will help keep things organised. Since your child has to be happy with their bag, they should have the final say: it's best to try out a few different models together.
What to pack in their school bag?
Before school starts, it's time for a shopping trip. Besides the basics like pencil cases, notepads, copybooks, rulers and so on, every class has different requirements for school supplies. You'll often only find out if you need a set square, compass or special copybooks when school actually starts. You can also ask other parents and get prepared in advance. That way you'll have plenty of time to get everything without any stress. Write a checklist so you don't forget anything. Lunchtime essentials like a drinks bottle and a lunchbox are just as important. Look for easy-to-clean, durable materials – kids are naturally a bit rough with their things.
Ready for back to school?
Before the big day arrives, it’s a good idea to do a trial run. Pack their school bag together and decide where everything should go. A good rule of thumb is to pack heavier items as close to their back as possible, with lighter things in the outer pockets. Make sure only the school supplies needed for that day are in the bag. The less weight your child has to carry, the better. That's why it's worth setting up an evening routine where your child packs their bag for the next day. Do this together at first until they've learned their timetable. A quick check of the school bag before they leave is also a good idea. To help them remember, you could create a packing schedule together, listing all the items needed for each day. Why not turn it into a fun DIY project? It's a great way to get excited for the big day!
