‘It makes mornings less chaotic,’ genius mum hack for getting kids back to school stress-free

MANY kids head back to school this week after a bumper seven-week break.

And while it’s been a trying time for parents, returning to the classroom can be hard for both youngsters and their mums and dads.

Whether your wee one is starting primary for the first time, moving up a year or transitioning to high school, mum hack expert Casey Major-Bunce, 33, has top tips for getting through it.

The mum-of-four who shares her parenting advice with her 650,000 plus social media followers - said: "Back to school is fast approaching and it’s great to be prepared for returning to the classroom.

"My top tips can save both parents and kids from added stress during this transitional period, with hopefully some added fun too."

Here are her top five hacks including one genius timer tip.

Create a Routine

MAKING sure every morning is the same can help kids get back into the swing of school.

Casey said: “Set a morning and evening routine and try to stick to it.

“This really helps my kids adjust to the school schedule after the break.

“Try to wake them up at the same time each day and tie in activities. like

or packing their bags, the night before to make mornings smoother and reduce stress for you and the family.

“You could create a checklist that includes all the tasks that need to be achieved before leaving for school - like getting dressed, brushing teeth, and eating breakfast. This promotes independence and helps kids stay organised, helping them not to forget anything.”

Last minute shopping

IF you still have to pick up any bits for the new term, make sure to get the kids involved.

The expert said: “Allow them to choose a backpack, notebooks, and stationery that reflect their personality or, if last year’s backpack is still in action, help them update it by adding iron-on patches or badges. Or get them to help give the bag a clean so it’s spruced up for the start of term.

“This will excite them about school whilst teaching them responsibility.

“An added tip would be to prepare a box stocked with extra supplies like pencils, pens, rubbers, and sharpeners, so they can easily refill their pencil cases if they need to.”

Make breakfast easy

EVERYONE knows mornings can be a nightmare for busy families - so prep as much as you can.

There’s even a tasty way to get brekkie ready in a flash.

Casey said: “Consider making pancake muffins.Use a regular pancake mix, pour it into muffin tins, and top with the children’s favourites, from chocolate drops to berries. Bake as usual - the muffins won’t crumble and last in the fridge for up to five days.”

Meanwhile, she recommends using a timer for each morning task - from getting dressed to brushing teeth - to keep everyone on schedule.

The mum added: “This adds a fun challenge and motivates kids to complete their tasks quickly, making the morning less chaotic.”

Set goals

LOOKING ahead can help ease a child’s worries and stresses about the year that’s coming - and prepare them for the challenges of primary or secondary life.

It could be that they want to join a particular club, make more friends or get set grades in certain subjects, depending on what stage of the school they are about to embark on.

Casey said: “Encourage your child to set personal goals for the school year, whether academic, social, or extracurricular.

“Talk to them about what they want to achieve and be positive when they share this with you. This interaction will help motivate them and give them a sense of direction as they approach the new school year.”

Tackle fears

BEING open about the concerns a child may have is key to a smooth transition, whether they are starting school or heading for secondary.

Your child may not have said anything, but often they can be daunted by the prospect of major changes - like going from nursery to primary or starting to sit their nationals or highers.

The expert said: “You should ask your children if there’s anything they’re particularly worried about going back to school.

“This will give you a chance to address any fears they have and reassure them that it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. Open conversations can help them feel more confident and ready for the new term.”

- Follow Casey Major-Bunce AKA The Queen of Hacks @MajorMumHacks.