Ultimate Back to School Survival Guide for Parents and Kids with Must-Have Tips and Amazon Finds
- Aug 18
- 6 min read
As summer fades and the back-to-school season approaches, many parents find themselves in the midst of preparation chaos. The key to a successful transition for both kids and parents lies in organisation. From school supplies to daily routines, smart planning can ease the process significantly. This ultimate back to school survival guide offers valuable Amazon finds, effective tips for establishing school routines, healthy meal ideas, and tailored strategies for preparing younger children and those with special needs for their first day. Let’s jump right in!
Best Back to School Amazon Finds To Compliment The Survival Guide
When it comes to back-to-school shopping, Amazon is packed with helpful essentials. Here are some standout items to check out this school year:
Backpacks: Every student needs a reliable backpack. For instance, the Highly Rated Amazon Basics Backpack is known for its durability and smart design, featuring padded straps and multiple compartments to keep items organised.
Lunch Boxes: A quality lunch box can make lunchtime enjoyable. For example, the Bentgo lunch box is popular for its fun design and stackable containers, making it easy to pack a balanced meal.
School Supplies: Stocking up on essentials like notebooks, pens, and pencils is a must. Amazon frequently offers deals on supply kits. For instance, a standard 60-pack of sharpened #2 pencils can cost around $10.
Organisational Tools: Planners and calendars are vital in helping kids manage their assignments. Consider the Student Planner that includes sections for class schedules and homework tracking, recognised for boosting productivity by 20%.
Tech Gadgets: Tablets can enhance learning. The Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablet for ages 3-7 and for ages 6-12 is known for its kid-friendly features and durability, making it an excellent investment for homework and reading.
A vibrant display of school supplies ready for back-to-school shopping
Tips for Getting Both Kids and Parents Back into a School Routine
Creating a reliable routine is essential for a smooth school year. Here are strategies to help everyone adjust:
Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Shift bedtimes gradually. If your child typically sleeps at 9 PM, transition to an earlier bedtime by 15 minutes each night in the week leading up to school.
Create a Morning Routine: Visual charts are perfect for younger kids, illustrating steps from waking up to heading out the door. For example, use pictures to represent breakfast, brushing teeth, and packing their backpack.
Designate a Homework Time: Establish a homework block after school, such as 4 PM to 5 PM, to encourage routine and focus.
Plan Family Time: Carve out at least one evening weekly for family entertainment and activities, whether it’s a game night or outdoor cookout, to strengthen bonds.
Tips for Healthy Child-Friendly Breakfasts, Lunches, and Snacks
Providing nutritious meals fuels kids’ energy and focus. Food can be more appealing to children when it is presented in a visually appealing way so why not experiment with different shaped cutters designed for sandwiches, fruits and vegetables to see what your child likes. Here are some delicious meal ideas:
Breakfast Ideas
Overnight Oats: Mix rolled oats, yogurt, and fruits for a quick breakfast full of fibre and protein. A single serving can contain upwards of 200 calories.
Smoothies: Blend frozen fruits, a handful of spinach, and Greek yogurt for a refreshing drink. Adding protein powder or peanut butter can also enhance nutritional value.
Whole Grain Toast with Avocado: Smash avocado on whole grain toast; it provides healthy fats essential for brain function. Add a scrambled egg or 2 on top for extra protein.
Lunch Ideas
Wraps: Use whole grain tortillas filled with turkey, cheese, and lettuce and a little mayonnaise. Nutritional value here is rich in protein and vitamins.
Bento Boxes: Combine sliced fruits, veggies, cheese, meat slices and whole grain crackers for a balanced meal in one container.
Pasta Salad: Prepare a pasta salad with diced veggies, cheese and a light vinaigrette dressing. If your children like fish, try replacing the dressing with tuna mayonnaise and sweetcorn for an extra healthy hit of protein.
A healthy lunchbox filled with fruits, veggies, and whole grains
Snack Ideas
Fruit and Nut Mix: An easy snack option that delivers protein and healthy fats. A quarter-cup serving generally has about 200 calories. Remember to always check with the school to ensure nuts are allowed as some schools have a ban on children bringing in nut products due to nut allergies.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus: A crunchy snack that’s low in calories and provides essential nutrients.
Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits for a delightful snack that can average 150-300 calories depending on the serving size.
Tips for Preparing Younger Children for Their First Day at School/Pre-School
Starting school can be exciting yet daunting. Here are ways to ease their worries:
Visit the School: Familiarise your child with their new environment, helping reduce anxiety about the unknown.
Read Books About School: Stories like "The Kissing Hand" can prepare kids emotionally for their first day. Such books often emphasise friendship and courage.
Practice Separation: Thoughtfully practice brief separations before school starts, helping your child adjust to time apart.
Create a Goodbye Ritual: Establishing a consistent goodbye routine, like a simple wave or special handshake, can bring comfort.
Tips for Getting Organised for School the Night Before
Preparation the night before can streamline busy mornings. Here’s how:
Pack Backpacks: Let kids pack their bags the night before to ensure they have everything ready, including homework and supplies.
Lay Out Clothes: Decide on outfits the night before. This simple step saves parents an average of 10-15 minutes in the morning.
Prepare Lunches: Making lunches ahead saves time and can reduce morning stress. Involve your kids in the process to encourage their input.
Set Alarms: Use alarms effectively, from wake-up time to reminders for when to leave the house. If your child is older and struggles to get up, try setting an alarm next to their bed and a another alarm the other side of the room or on the landing. This will force your child out of bed to switch off the second alarm.
A child happily packing their backpack for school
Tips for Preparing Autistic Children for Their First Day in School
Transitioning to school can be especially tough for autistic children. Consider these approaches to help ease their anxiety:
Create a Visual Schedule: Outlining a daily routine with pictures can assist in creating predictability, which helps in making transitions smoother.
Practice Social Skills: Role-playing common scenarios, like asking to join a game, can boost confidence and prepare them for interactions.
Visit the School Together: This familiarisation can greatly reduce anxieties. Touring classrooms and playgrounds boosts comfort levels.
Communicate with Teachers: Establishing open communication lines with teachers ensures that your child's unique needs are understood and supported.
For parents of autistic children who are feeling overwhelmed, it is beneficial to read our eBook, "Parenting Children with Autism: A Comprehensive Guide," along with the accompanying resources to support you through the transition period and any future challenges you or your child may encounter.
Tips for Navigating Homework Challenges
Homework can create stress for families. Here are some strategies to make it manageable:
Create a Homework Space: Find a dedicated study area that is quiet and well-lit, such as a desk away from distractions like TVs or phones.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Divide larger assignments into smaller, actionable parts. For example, if a child has a project, break it down into research, writing, and editing segments.
Set a Timer: Using a timer for focused study sessions encourages concentration. Consider 25 minutes on, followed by a 5-minute break.
Encourage Questions: Cultivate an open environment where kids feel safe asking for help. This can encourage deeper understanding and diminish frustration.
Hydration: Ensuring your child is properly hydrated when undertaking their homework assignments can sometimes be the difference between arguments and knuckling down to do their assignment. It can also be worth offering the child a healthy snack such as some grapes or some cheese and crackers to munch on while doing their homework.
Ideas to Keep Children Occupied After School
Finding activities to engage kids after school can be a challenge. Here are some playful options:
Craft Projects: Supply a dedicated area with materials like paper, colours, and crafts to spark creativity.
Reading Time: Encourage reading by creating a cosy reading corner stacked with age-appropriate books. A great choice is the "I Can Read" series, which boosts literacy skills.
Outdoor Play: Promote outdoor activities such as biking or soccer. Research shows that 60 minutes of activity daily improves mood and overall well-being.
Educational Games: Consider board games like Scrabble or puzzles that combine fun and learning. Involving friends can also motivate engagement.
Getting Ready for a Great School Year
Preparation for back-to-school season doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right tools, routines, and strategies in place, both kids and parents can tackle the coming school year with confidence. From essential Amazon finds to meal planning tips, you now have a wealth of resources to ensure a successful transition. Embrace these new beginnings, knowing that thorough preparation is your ally for a fantastic school year ahead!
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As a parent and teacher I can fully endorse the tips and strategies laid down in this easy to read article. Planning can make a significant difference in helping both parent and child enjoy their educational experience.