5 tips for getting ready for a new term

Today I’ve spent the morning searching for a PE kit that’s gone missing somewhere in the house and ordering a new uniform for one of my children who seems to have had a sudden growth spurt. Here are a few tips for getting ready for the new term:

1. Check sizing for school shoes and trainers
Little feet seem to grow rapidly and I seem to go through a large number of trainers and school shoes. For school shoes, I like shopping at Papouelli in Parsons Green, and I’ve bought the last pairs of trainers from Trotters in Northcote Road.

2. Order sticker name labels
I started sewing on labels many years ago, but gave up quickly. I now rely on sticker name labels, and I usually order them from MyNametags. Sticker labels are useful for anything from snack boxes and scissors to clothing and rucksacks. This morning, we had new Sip by S’well insulated children’s water bottles to label.

3. Sharpen pencils and review stationery needs
If pencil cases and stationery is needed, it is always worth going through the existing supply. Last night I sharpened pencils, and over the holiday we’ve stocked up on favourite colouring pencils that were becoming too short and tricky to use.

4. Consider magazine subscriptions
Next on my list is to re-think magazine subscriptions, and sign up for a weekly newspaper trial. For older children, there are several popular titles, with children’s newspaper First News being recommended for children aged 7 to 14, and children’s current affairs magazine The Week Junior being recommended for children aged 8 to 14. I’ve also been recommended children’s magazine National Geographic Kids, which is a monthly magazine recommended for children aged 6 to 13.

5. Remember water bottles and lunch boxes
For children who bring water bottles or lunch boxes to school or classes, I’ve found that these have been tough to remember on the first day after a holiday, and I’ve previously ended up in Waitrose to buy last-minute snack on the way to school on a first day back. My New Year’s resolution is to be more organised and always ensure everything is ready the night before.

Tags: Back to school, First News, National Geographic Kids, School uniform, Sticker labels, Subscriptions, The Week Junior, Water bottle