We're now in the summer holidays, and although September might seem a while away yet, there are some things that you can do now that can make starting or returning to school that bit easier. Here are some ideas from our Parents & Carers EDI Network:
Annual leave – if your child is starting school and is doing a phased introduction, it's good idea to try and take some annual leave in this period as there can be some big emotions and tiredness to manage, but also if it's primary school then there are often park trips with other parents and it's a good way to get to know the school community.
WhatsApp – Love or loathe WhatsApp groups, but they're a great way to reach out to other parents and there are often reminders about 'odd sock day' and which is 'PE day'. It's a good idea if there's more than one parent for you both to join – to share the admin load and if your child is stating school for the first time, it might be worth contacting the school office to see if groups are already set up to get to know other parents before September.
Uniform – there are often good offers over the summer from some of the big retailers (M&S, Sainsburys etc), but also you can pick up some great bargains from Vinted, or your school might sell second hand branded items so again contact the school office. Children seem to lose uniform faster than you can buy it, so you can buy labels from places like Petit Ferdinand or MyNameTags, or stamps from Stamptastic so you're not having to write their name in every item.
Admin – the volume of school admin is wild! If there is more than one parent/guardian, make sure you're both on the school email mailing lists if possible to share the load. Our members have also suggested some ideas to help you manage the admin:
- Have a white board by the door where you can write important things to remember.
- Family calendar apps - can be great for teenagers and keeping track of all their social activities
- Make sure you are signed up for any school newsletter and calendars (check if the school has a downloadable calendar of events that will go straight into your calendar). Also screenshot the school term dates calendar and send it to any relevant parent/guardian/grandparents so you all have a copy.
- Ensure that you've met the class teacher and take note of any other information they provide, including lunch time arrangements, any forms that need completing such as medical forms.
Change – For those children who are feeling anxious about starting school, there is a guide on school anxiety and refusal here.
There is some further reading here:
https://home.oxfordowl.co.uk/at-school/reception-at-primary-school/getting-ready-to-start-school/
https://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/primary/learning-school/starting-primary-school