South Africa
Parents encouraged to prepare children as school year begins─── ZENANDE MPAME 10:41 Fri, 09 Jan 2026
From ticking off shopping lists to helping children adjust emotionally, the week leading up to school reopening are a critical period that can shape how learners start the year.
The department of basic education has published the 2026 school calendar, which kicks off on Wednesday (14/1) for all learners. As the new school year approaches, parents play an important role in preparing their children both practically and emotionally for the transition back to school.
Helping your children prepare for a new school term can be stressful as a parent, according to APS Schools Projects. Sometimes it can feel like there’s so much to do: preparing a new calendar, getting the kids back into a routine, and ensuring any outstanding projects have been completed.
Parents are urged to prepare children for school by gradually adjusting sleep schedules, talking about feelings and goals, and encouraging independence while setting realistic expectations for the new year, establishing routines, and checking supplies and uniforms.
When buying stationery, parents are urged to buy what is needed. Photo: Takealot
Here is a back-to-school checklist for parents and children:
- Reset evenings and mornings: Over the next few days, start reintroducing the steps of a typical school night and morning.
- Mental health and support: Try to speak positively about the new school year. Ignite their excitement by discussing new teachers and making new friends.
- Create a family calendar: This is a game-changer in keeping track of everything; extracurricular activities, test days, projects, weekend sports games, and social events.
- Prepare for extracurricular activities: Parents should get a list of what children need for their extracurricular activities and get these items while you’re out and about.
- Stationery and uniform: When going stationery shopping, always have the list with you, and buy what is needed. With uniform shopping, always shop for deals and specials.
- Communicate with your child’s school: Establish open lines of communication with your child’s school and teachers to stay informed about important updates, events, and academic progress.
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