Getting organised for back to school can be tricky, so here are some tips to make it a little easier.
1. Make a schedule
- Have a planner with all of the homework, assignments, after school activities (such as sports, band, clubs) and holidays so you can see everything visually and keep on top of what you need to do (4).
- Get into a routine – start your sleep schedule early so kids get used to when to go to bed and when to wake up – prep everything the night before, get the kids involved by laying out their own uniforms and packing their bags the night before so everything is ready to go in the morning (1).
2. Get the right backpack
- Getting the right backpack for your child is so important as it prevents them from straining any muscles or getting a sore back.
- Find a backpack with wide, padded straps and a waist strap, while making sure it is the right size to fit your child.
- Keep it light! Only pack what is necessary for your child to bring to school, putting the heavier items towards the back and the lighter items at the front.
- Find more information for choosing the right backpack on our backpack tips blog https://simplyhealthandwellness.com.au/back-to-school-back-pack-tips/
3. Plan out your food
- Scheduling your food for the week allows you to stay organised and also make sure your children are eating enough of the right foods. Try incorporating a mixture of food groups in their meals and snacks so they are getting enough nutrients and remain full throughout the day. This can include protein, some dairy, veggies, fruit, whole grains and healthy fats (3).
- Let kids help design their meals for the week, making them excited for their food and more likely to eat all of it (3).
- Buy durable and reusable containers which are more environmentally friendly, and can come in cool designs which make eating more fun (1). A fun, reusable water bottle encourages kids to stay hydrated during the day.
- Remember that recess and lunch are short, so make sure their foods are easy and quick to eat. Talk to your child to make sure they’re getting the right amount of food (3).
- Starting the day off with a good breakfast will help them feel full and energised for school. For example (2):
4. Make time for fun
- Don’t forget to make things fun. Take some time for yourself or special time with your kids to unwind or do fun activities you enjoy!
Find more of our health tips blogs here https://simplyhealthandwellness.com.au/health-tips/
Sources:
(1) Care.com. 2020. 101 back to school tips for kids and parents. https://www.care.com/c/stories/3192/101-back-to-school-tips-for-kids-and-parents/
(2) Kidspot Kitchen. 16 breakfast ideas your kids will love. https://www.kidspot.com.au/kitchen/galleries/16-breakfast-ideas-kids-love/ey55dbfv?page=12
(3) Palanjian, A. 2020. 10 easy no-cook school lunch ideas, Yummy Toddler Food. https://www.yummytoddlerfood.com/recipes/no-cook-school-lunch-ideas/
(4) The Princeton Review. 12 study tips for back to school. https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/back-to-school-study-tips