The new school year is almost here and thousands of children across the region will be heading back to classes whether in person or online.
As parents and children count down the days, whether excitedly or with trepidation, preparations are being made. Books have been bought and covered, uniforms ironed, haircuts booked for the boys and shoes polished and ready.
You may think as a parent that you are all set for the first day or even first week of school but as the term goes along you may find that there are some things you definitely weren’t prepared for especially if this is your first school experience.
If you are new to the game, here is a list of things you ought to be prepared for as your kids head to school and if you are a seasoned vet, here is a reminder, just in case you forgot.
Illness
While COVID-19 is still around and your child stands a chance of contracting the virus, that is not the only disease they may catch. The return to classes is usually accompanied by the spread of all sorts of germs. Hand, foot and mouth disease, chicken pox and the flu are just some of the diseases your children can contract at school. Stay vigilant, ensure your children follow proper hygiene practices and that they have the necessary vaccines.
Worn out shoes
Be prepared to buy a new pair of shoes before the end of the term. Children love to run about and play and depending on what they play, like football, chances are their shoes won’t hold out till the term’s end.
Things to print
Yes, you bought printer pages for the school as listed on the booklist but be warned, there will be requests for your child to print out items to stick in their books or for projects. If you can, purchase a printer for the home as it will definitely come in handy especially when your child remembers on a Sunday night that they have a project due the next day.
Lost items
Whether it is a book, lunch kit, shoes, or their uniform, prepare for your child to lose something at school. Put tags on their items so they could be easily identified especially if other children have the same things. Ensure your school has a lost and found area where lost items can be placed.
Donations
Many schools cannot function fully on Government’s support so prepare to dip into your pocket for various projects such as the school’s building fund or fundraisers for different events or causes.
