BACK TO SCHOOL: TAKE THE FIRST STEPS TO PREPARE
We are in August, which means the summer holiday is coming to a close and preparations to get back to school are starting. As back-to-school time draws closer, we tend to want to get the rest of our summer activities done - going on that last hike, spending our last lazy weekend with a picnic at the park, or going out for ice cream run in the evening with our windows rolled down.
Important as it is to enjoy the close of the holidays, it is equally important to start getting ourselves ready for school, college or university. This is best done incrementally so we slowly acclimatise ourselves to our new norm while enjoying the rest of our holidays.
Here are a few things to start doing as you get ready.
Start getting back into a routine
The summer holidays can be filled with late mornings and nights. Meal times are changed up, and daily menus are optional. We pay little attention to time as our routines are more flexible. To prepare for back to school, start incorporating small actions like going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday and having breakfast and dinner at set times. It will become easier to get into a routine once you are back in school.
2. Prepare your mind for learning
You will want to get your mind back in the process of learning. You can do this by revising key topics you learnt in the last school year. Consider spending 30 minutes each reading books or watching videos that are educational to ensure you learn something new. This will get your mind into the habit of learning and incite your curiosity to engage in critical thinking in the classroom.
3. Update your wardrobe
This does not mean you have to go on a shopping spree and spend all your money on new clothes. Instead, go through your closet and make sure all the clothes you will need for the school year are still the right fit. Check for any holes and tears that may need mending and make a note of any replacements you may need to make. Try pairing up different sets of clothing to make sure you have a capsule wardrobe that you can mix and match for a whole week of school.
4. Fuel your body
Nutritious meals are key for your physical and mental health to sustain you through the day of learning. Start reincorporating healthy foods including wholegrains, fruits and vegetables to boost your natural energy and mental fortitude. Plan your meals to ensure you have a combination of all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals you need to keep healthy throughout the school term.
5. Organise your back-to-school supplies
Go through your leftover supplies from the previous year and make sure your school bag is in good condition. Take stock of any tools you need to replace and find the best option for where to purchase them. Practice packing your bag to gauge how everything fits and make any adjustments necessary.
Preparing for school in advance can make the transition smoother and increase your excitement for the new school year. It also gives you more time to enjoy the rest of the holiday by avoiding the rush of the last week of holidays when roads and busy and stores are full of everyone making last minute preparations.
I hope these tips are helpful as you get started on your back to school journey.
Happy August!
