Back-to-school tips for those parents running a little behind this year

If back-to-school snuck up on you again here are some helpful insights to make it a little less stressful.

Sometimes, it seems the summer school holidays drag on (and on and on), and six weeks feels more like three months.

But then, all of a sudden back to school creeps up, and you’re already running behind on everything you promised you’d do before the new term kicked off.

For those parents who just got their kids back to school but still have a mountain to-do list nagging them, one mum has some strategies for you.

Amanda Morley, also known as @justmelbournemama, has shared her insights with Kidspot on how you can make the back-to-school experience as painless as possible. 

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Get the whole family involved

Morley emphasised the importance of involving the entire family in the back-to-school shopping journey, and with one-stop shops like Myer, there's no need to drag the troops from place to place (and parking spot to parking spot!).

She also suggested making the day as fun as possible, getting lunch and then shopping afterward. 

Empower your children with information

Clear communication is crucial when it comes to back-to-school shopping. 

Morley suggested communicating specific requirements to the children, such as colour preferences, features, and budget constraints. 

This not only empowers them to make choices but also ensures that the purchased items meet the necessary criteria.

"I communicate what they need, for example if shoes need to be black, have velcro or if we have a budget for the item then kids know that before we leave. This helps them have more control over the choices while still getting what we need," she said. 

Amanda has cracked the back-to-school code. Source: Instagram

Let their personality shine

Morley encouraged parents to let their children express their personalities through their school supplies. 

Allowing them to choose their favourite colours and characters for items like lunch boxes, drink bottles, and name labels creates excitement about starting the school year with new and personalised belongings.

This will also help them get excited about the year ahead! 

Set a budget

Financial stress can often accompany back-to-school shopping. Morley suggested determining a realistic budget and adhering to it. 

This proactive approach helps prioritise purchases, prevents impulse buys, and ultimately alleviates financial strain.

Create a list

A comprehensive shopping list is a valuable tool in ensuring a smooth experience. 

Morley recommended categorising the list by school supplies, clothing, and other essentials.

By following these practical tips, families can turn the back-to-school shopping experience from a daunting task into an enjoyable and stress-free adventure for both parents and children.

Originally published as Back-to-school tips for those parents running a little behind this year