The dawn of a new academic school year presents an opportunity for students and parents to create new habits that could make the year ahead a little easier.
For many families the daily trip to school and back can be difficult – for children and adults alike!
Mornings can be rushed, stressful and, if not managed properly, can be a bad start to the day. “With a few small changes and some forward planning, you can have a smooth school drop-off… and you may even be able to squeeze in some enjoyable time for the whole family,” says Barend Smit, Marketing Director of Motor Happy, a supplier of motor management solutions.
It all starts the night before
• Try to make sure all homework is complete and bags are packed the night before. This includes lunch if possible.
• Scrambling to iron a shirt or finding a lost shoe is not a fun way to start the day. Lay all their clothing out neatly, from the tie to the socks.
• Put all the things your child is going to need next to the door. That way they can grab everything as they walk out, rather than run around trying to find everything before they leave.
The morning of school
• Ban television, social media and any other screens that may distract your child. Alternatively, let them have their screens as a reward once they’re ready.
• As often as possible, give your child a nutritious and filling meal before leaving for school. Foods such as cheese and toast, granola and yoghurt or scrambled egg are good options for rushed mornings. You can even prepare healthy breakfasts to eat on the go… do a Google search for a smoothie, egg muffin or overnight oats recipes.
• Try your best to be ready before they are. That way you can help them get ready.
• Create a reward chart that outlines the order in which your child can quickly and efficiently complete tasks in the morning. Give your child a star every time they complete a task. You could even consider adding times to the reward chart.
On the way to school
• Whether you take your child to school in your car, or whether they are part of a carpool, or catch a bus or taxi, teach them about vehicle safety. This way, they will know they should buckle-up as soon as they are seated, and not fiddle with the doors and windows, or distract the driver.
• Create a music playlist to brighten the mood, listen on your car stereo or through earphones, feel-good music that will put a smile on your child’s face and set the tone for a good day ahead.
• Check navigation apps to check which routes to avoid traffic jams and make the trip to school smoother.
• If driving to school don’t park directly in front of the school gates. Not only will this block other drivers, but you could get into trouble with the school or traffic cops and earn a fine. Instead, make use of parking lots and drop-off lanes. You could even park on a quieter street further away from school. The walk to school may be longer, but it makes dropping off easier.
Of course, when it comes to a school drop-off, one of your most important considerations is vehicle safety. Ensure your car is in good running order by keeping up to date with recommended car-service intervals and vehicle maintenance.
