Ensure that the child is mentally and psychologically prepared, cultivate positive attitudes
1. Be sensitive to the anxieties (if any) of the child who is going to school for the first time. Going to school for the first time is a milestone. It is a time of great change in many ways and a time of separation. Prepare the child (and yourself) for these changes.
2. Encourage positive thoughts and attitudes to school and the school environment.
3. Have reasonable expectations of your children, bearing in mind their ability.
4. Help the child to get into a routine in preparation for school sufficiently before the school year starts - getting to bed on time, familiarising self with supplies, textbooks, etc.
5. The child needs to know his or her home address and telephone number; write these details in clothes, shoes, lunch pans, etc.
Pack lunch for your child
1. Get into the habit of packing lunch for your child. In this way, a balanced and healthier meal may be provided. Encourage the child to assist you in preparing lunch.
Arrange for medical examinations
1. Medical examinations prior to the new academic year will provide a healthy start for your child.
2. Parents should ensure that vaccinations are up to date.
3. An eye examination may also prove most beneficial to a child who may be having undetected vision problems.
Source: Consumer Affairs Commission
