Back-to-school supplies: A Parent’s Playbook for back to school success | Free back to school supply checklist

With the fun of summer coming to an end, the pressure for being back to school ready is growing for parents. With a new school year comes new supplies, uniforms, and routines. 

Whether you’ve been down this road a hundred times or you’re just starting this exciting journey, we’ve put together the ultimate back-to-school guide, including some tips and tricks to make this year organised, stress-free, and, most importantly, fun.

Parents back to school checklist 

The first thing you should do is use our checklist to help make sure you are on top of everything. From clothing to stationary, and everything in between. Our checklist has it all to help keep you organised. 

Revamp the Wardrobe:

Go through your child’s wardrobe, donate anything that doesn’t fit and make sure to purchase their uniform before the start of school. You can view our uniform guide here to see what it is you will need to purchase. 

To help support our environmentally friendly goals we are hosting a preloved sale. This is the opportunity for parents and new parents of pupils to come and get preloved uniform and join us on Thursday 24th August 8.30 am – 11.00 am cash only. 

School Supplies 

Everyone loves new stationery, use this as a chance to get your child involved in choosing their pens, pencils, drink bottles, notebooks and more. Make sure to have spares of each item stocked up for when they get lost or run out. 

Tackle the sleep routine

Your child’s sleeping pattern can easily change over the school holidays, with trips away and lots of exciting activities. It’s no wonder that sleep changes during the summer break. Make it easier for you and your child by slowly reintroducing a sleep and evening routine. This helps make sure they are well-rested and ready to learn from day one.

Make space for easy packing

Make a space near the door or porch where you place shoes, backpacks, coats and anything else you may need. This allows you to keep the morning routine short and means you can run out the door as soon as breakfast is done and uniforms are on. 

Organisation before the school year:

Now you have your school checklist, what else can you do to make going back to school easier? 

Master the Art of Meal Prep:

We all know that when it’s back to school life becomes rushed. With after school activities, work responsibilities and more dinner is the last thing on your mind after a busy day. Spend some time on meal prep, make a list, prepare meals, and make your evening easy for when you all return to school and work. 

Calendar Magic:

Calendars are your best friends. Whether digital or traditional, mark down everything from school events to family outings. Set reminders on your calendar (if it’s digital) to help remind you of upcoming events and things you need to send in. If traditional calendars are your thing, then put it somewhere you will always have access. Perhaps the fridge, or on your bedside table. Making your calendar easy to see and access will help keep you on top of things. 

Navigating the School Year:

It’s not just getting back to school you can plan and prepare for, why not take this time to ensure you are fully prepared for the rest of the school year. 

The emergency cheat sheet:

Prepare a handy cheat sheet with critical information like emergency contacts, allergies, and special needs. Tuck it in your child’s backpack, and rest easy knowing you’ve planned for anything.

After-School fun:

After all the homework is done, plan some time for afterschool activities, this allows your child to unwind after a busy day of learning. A little screen time never hurts at the end of the day, do what works for your child and your family. 

Family time:

Make some time during the year to plan fun family activities, you could even do a “yes day” which your children can look forward to. 

The school year is filled with learning, fun, and exciting memorable moments. With this playbook by your side, you’re sure to remain in charge of the school year. 

Heathfield Knoll is an independent school providing an all inclusive education from children aged 3 months in Nursery to students aged 18 years old in Sixth Form.

For more information on our admissions process contact us today via admissions@hkschool.org.uk.