Good To Go For Back To School

As the summer school holidays draw to a close, parents are often caught off-guard with their preparation for back to school.

The Warehouse is here to help with useful tips on planning for the new school year and a checklist to ensure that children are good to go.

Good To Go Checklist:

Double check school start dates - often schools have staggered start dates for different levels.

Check school has correct emergency contact information for you and your family.

If your child is attending a new school, familiarise them (and you) with the school layout before the term starts.

Work out how your child is getting to school and time the route.

If bedtime routines have slipped over the holidays, re-establish the routine the week before school starts so children are well rested.

Check that school clothing and equipment like bags, bike helmets, and swimming togs still fit (see checklist below to assist).

Check school uniforms; Are they clean? Have you got all the items required? Don’t leave it too late as uniform supply shops can sell out of certain items.

Make sure the school is aware of your child’s allergies or medical requirements.

If your child wears glasses, a trip to the optometrist for a check up may be a good idea.

Allow kids to choose their own school supplies, such as school bag, lunchbox and stationery, to help create excitement about heading back to school. The Warehouse carries many popular brands and licenses, including Bro’ Town, Spongebob Squarepants, Winnie the Pooh, Bratz, Cars, Happy Feet, and more, that are sure to be a hit with kids.

Healthy lunches and snacks will help ensure kids have the energy they need to get through the day. Make sure children get enough to drink by including bottled water and juices.

Create a homework space at home to help children focus; this could include a desk, desk lamp, comfortable chair and stationery.

Create a family schedule for kids to fill in their after school activities - The Warehouse stocks wall planners and calendars perfect for this.

Check the school’s own stationery and equipment checklists for what children require.

Back to School Supplies Checklist:

• Accessories:

o Backpack

o Wall planner

o School diary

• Stationery:

o Notebooks and exercise books

o Pencil case

o Pens and pencils

o Erasers and pencil sharpener

o Highlighters and coloured pencils

o Rulers and compass sets

o Duraseal

o Book labels

o Clearfiles

• Lunchtime:

o Lunch box and drink bottle

o Nutritious food and drink supplies

• Transport:

o Bike and helmet

o Bike chain and locks

• Furniture:

o Homework desk and chair

o Desk lamp

o Filing cabinet/system

• Technology:

o Calculator

o Computer/Laptop

• Clothing:

o Durable school clothing (if no uniform)

o Comfortable shoes and socks

o Swimming togs, cap and towel

o Hat and sunscreen

Plus, shop for back to school supplies at The Warehouse before 13 February 2007 and enter the draw for a chance to win one of 85 PlayStation Portables.

ENDS

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