As the new school year gets underway parents across South Africa gear up to ensure their children are ready to hit the ground running. From gathering supplies to establishing routines, back-to-school preparation can feel overwhelming. This guide provides some easy to follow, actionable steps and helpful resources to make the process smoother and stress-free.
Create a Back-to-School Checklist
A well-organised checklist is essential to ensure you cover all the bases. Include categories like:
- Stationery and Supplies: Pens, pencils, notebooks, rulers, and calculators.
- Uniforms: Check if your child has outgrown last year’s uniform or shoes.
- Lunch Essentials: Lunchboxes, water bottles, and reusable cutlery.
- Tech Needs: Tablets, laptops, or other devices required for schoolwork.
Use your child’s school supply list as a guide to tailor your checklist. This ensures you’re purchasing only what’s necessary.
Shop Smart for School Supplies
Shopping for back-to-school items doesn’t have to break the bank. Many South African retailers offer special deals during this period. Here are some shopping pages from major retailers to help you save – and as a bonus, you can use your RCS Store Card for purchases at any of these stores:
- Game Back to School Deals
- Makro Back to School Offers
- Pick n Pay School Essentials
- Checkers Back to School
Tip: Compare prices online before heading to the store. Some retailers also offer discounts for bulk purchases too, which can be ideal for families with multiple children.
Update Uniforms and Shoes
Children grow quickly, and uniforms from last year may no longer be suitable. Check the following:
- Measure your child to ensure accurate sizing.
- Purchase durable shoes that can withstand daily wear.
- Stock up on extras like socks, ties, and hats.
Retailers like PnP Clothing and Mr Price offer affordable uniform options.
Establish a Routine
A consistent routine helps children transition smoothly from holiday mode to school mode. Start implementing the following at least two weeks before school starts:
- Bedtime Schedule: Gradually adjust sleeping hours to match school timings.
- Morning Routine: Practice getting ready within a set timeframe.
- Homework Time: Allocate a specific time for reading or light academic activities.
Consistency is key to reducing the back-to-school jitters and ensuring a stress-free first day.
Prepare for Lunches and Snacks
Healthy lunches fuel your child’s learning and energy throughout the day. Plan balanced meals with a mix of:
- Proteins (chicken, eggs etc)
- Carbohydrates (whole-grain bread or rice)
- Fruits and vegetables.
- Healthy snacks like nuts or yoghurt.
Review Academic Requirements
Ensure your child is prepared for the academic year by:
- Reviewing the syllabus or curriculum.
- Stocking up on textbooks and supplementary materials.
- Setting academic goals for the year.
Many schools provide a list of required materials, so cross-check to avoid unnecessary purchases. You can also go over your child’s report from the previous year, discussing it in a little more detail to assist them in putting focus on areas that they may need to improve on.
Boost Emotional Readiness
Starting a new school year can be exciting but also nerve-wracking. Help your child feel confident by:
- Talking about what to expect on the first day.
- Encouraging them to share any concerns or fears.
- Reassuring them that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them.
For younger children, practice separation by arranging playdates or short stays with relatives.
Label EVERYTHING
Labelling all your child’s belongings reduces the chances of lost items. Use:
- Waterproof labels for lunchboxes and water bottles.
- Iron-on labels for uniforms and bags.
- Permanent markers for smaller items like pencils.
This little bit of planning can go a long way in saving wasted spend over the course of the year to replace items that otherwise wouldn’t need to be purchased.
Preparing for the new school year doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, shopping smart, and focusing on your child’s emotional and physical readiness, you can set the stage for a successful year. Use the resources and tips above to make the process seamless and efficient.
To make things even simpler, consider looking at the RCS Store Card to ensure that your festive spending does not hinder your ability to stock up on school supplies. Applying for the RCS Store Card can be done online in minutes.
