It is that time of the year again, where the kids are breaking up from school and us parents are worrying about how we are going to manage the 6 weeks holiday and get organised
It is that time of the year again, where the kids are breaking up from school and us parents are worrying about how we are going to manage the 6 weeks holiday and get organised enough ready for the ‘Back to School’ saga in September. It can seem like a mammoth task with uniform to buy, lunch boxes to buy, PE kits…the list goes on.
Just last year I was sending my eldest son off to Secondary School to start a new chapter in his life, it seems like just a few months ago he was in reception class. I spent many months worrying about the list of things he needed, and how I was going to be able to afford it. At the same time I had my 4 year old starting reception at Primary School, and my 10 year old was starting her new School too. So what did I do, have a mini meltdown? Yes, but then I gave myself a proverbial slap and got my pen and paper out and started with the lists.
First up I checked the kids wardrobes to see what they had that still fitted them, I find myself buying polo shirts all year round as they always get covered in paint stains so sometimes they still have some left that are good enough for the new school year. If I can get away with buying less, then I will.
I always make sure I have at least 5 of everything of their main uniform, yes that’s 5 shirts/tops, 5 jumpers/cardigans etc, but it that means less hassle of rushing to get clothes washed and dried in the mid week when things are manic. It may seem expensive, but sometimes things get lost (despite being named!) or sometimes you just don’t have the chance to wash and dry them. It’s particularly good if you work during the week too, it means you can do the wash at the weekend. It is not an extravagance, it’s a necessity in my opinion.
I always let the children have some input when it comes to their school stuff, and normally that is letting them pick their lunch box and water bottle. My eldest gets to pick his stationery, obviously with a budget (great for secret math!). The kids love having their chosen stuff, and proudly carry their bags with pride when it comes to the morning of starting school.
Worried about traipsing the kids about the shops? Don’t do it. I order a couple of sizes online, most shops are great with returns such as M&S Kids. For school shoes I make sure I order them online and always send back the ones that are not suitable. It is so much easier, and it also saves that awful situation where your child picks a totally unsuitable style or ones out of your budget.
Finally, don’t forget to check your list you started and make sure you have everything, try not to leave it until the last minute as shops can sell out and lets face it, a last minute panic is never fun. There is currently 20% off at M&S until 14th July 2015 so you can get a head start.
Post in collaboration with M&S
