The long summer holidays always seem to fly by, and before you know it, it’s time to dust off the school uniforms, pack the lunch bags and get everyone back into a routine.
Whether your child is starting Reception, moving up to secondary school or heading back for another year, a little preparation now can make those first few weeks much less stressful.
We’ve put together our favourite tips, along with some handy products that have made life easier for local families. (Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
1. Start Preparing a Week Early
Rather than leaving everything until the Sunday before school starts, spend 10 minutes each evening during the final week of the holidays getting organised.
Tick off things like:
- Trying on school uniform.
- Checking shoes still fit.
- Labelling clothes.
- Finding PE kits.
- Packing school bags.
- Testing lunch boxes and water bottles.
- Making sure stationery is ready.
Our Picks
2. Invest in a Good Backpack
Children carry far more than they used to, so choosing a comfortable backpack with padded straps can make a real difference.
Look for:
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Padded back support
- Multiple compartments
- Space for a water bottle
- Strong zips
Our Picks
3. Make Lunchtimes Easier
Packing lunches doesn’t have to become another daily chore.
Reusable lunch boxes with compartments can save time, keep food fresher and make lunches more appealing.
Useful additions include:
4. Create a Homework Station
Having one dedicated space at home for homework can help children settle into a routine more quickly.
You don’t need an expensive study area, just somewhere with good lighting and the essentials close by.
Consider adding:
5. Stock Up on Stationery
It’s amazing how quickly pencils disappear!
Buying a few extras now can save last-minute trips to the supermarket later.
6. Help Everyone Get Back Into Routine
A few days before school starts, gradually move bedtime and wake-up times closer to the school routine.
Simple things that help include:
- Bedtime story
- Reading together
- Charging devices downstairs overnight
- Preparing clothes the evening before
- Making packed lunches in advance where possible
7. Don’t Forget Yourself
Back-to-school season can feel just as overwhelming for parents.
A little organisation goes a long way.
Our Top Back-to-School Essentials Checklist
✓ Backpack
✓ Lunch box
✓ Water bottle
✓ Pencil case
✓ Stationery
✓ School shoes
✓ PE kit
✓ Name labels
✓ Homework planner
✓ Alarm clock
✓ Family calendar
Supporting Local Families
At The Goss, we love sharing practical ideas that make everyday life a little easier for families across Gosforth, Great Park and the surrounding areas.
If you’ve discovered a back-to-school product that you couldn’t live without, let us know. We’d love to hear your recommendations and may even feature them in a future article.
Here’s to a fantastic new school year, good luck to every child, parent and teacher heading back to the classroom this September!
