The Best Apps and Habits to Help Prepare Your Child for Back-to-School
The transition from the long, lazy days of summer holidays back into the strict routine of school can be tough—for both children and parents! The key to a smooth return is starting the preparation early, combining tried-and-tested parenting habits with smart use of technology. We look at the best ways to get everyone mentally and practically ready for the new term.
Habits: Mastering the Mental & Physical Routine
Consistency is everything when resetting the school schedule. Focus on these three habits a couple of weeks before term starts:
- The Sleep Reset: This is the most crucial step. Start shifting bedtime and wake-up times back by 15 minutes every couple of days until you hit the school-day schedule. A well-rested child is a happy, focused child.
- Morning Routine Rehearsal: Run through the actual morning routine (getting dressed, eating breakfast, packing a bag) a few days before school begins. This reduces the shock of the first day and helps iron out any unexpected delays.
- Talk It Out: Encourage open conversations about going back to school. Validate any worries or anxieties they might have. Talking about who they will see and what they will do (friends, favourite subjects) helps build positive anticipation.
Apps: Using Tech to Stay Organised and Calm
Your child’s phone or tablet doesn't have to be a distraction; it can be a powerful tool for organisation and relaxation. If you need a reliable, affordable device for their apps, remember you can always buy quality refurbished tech.
- myHomework Student Planner: For older students, this app is a lifesaver. It allows them to input their class schedule, track assignments, and receive reminders for due dates, helping them transition from holiday freedom to academic structure.
- Headspace or Smiling Mind: These mindfulness and meditation apps have sections specifically designed for children and teenagers. They offer guided sessions to help reduce back-to-school anxiety, improve focus, and promote better sleep.
- Happy Kids Timer / School Morning Routine: Aimed at younger children, these apps gamify the morning process. They use visual cues and rewards to guide kids through tasks like getting dressed and eating breakfast, making the morning rush much smoother and less reliant on parental nagging.
- Khan Academy Kids / Duolingo: These free learning apps keep academic skills sharp during the holidays. Khan Academy focuses on core subjects like maths and reading, while Duolingo keeps foreign language skills fresh in a fun, game-like environment.
The Sustainable Solution for New Term Tech
If you are buying a new device to support their learning, choosing refurbished is the smartest financial and ecological decision. And if the new term means an upgrade for the student, make sure their old phone doesn't become e-waste. You can easily get cash for that unused handset when you sell your old tech to Envirofone, which is a great way to fund the cost of new uniform or school supplies!
