As September rolls around, the familiar buzz of a new school year begins. Parents juggle uniforms, stationery, after-school clubs, and the ever-growing mountain of “stuff” that seems to come with the territory. To help you get ahead of the game, we’ve compiled some essential back to school tips and tricks to keep stress levels low and organisation levels high.
1. Get Ahead with a Routine
Children thrive on structure. Start reintroducing school bedtimes and morning routines at least a week before term begins. Setting clear expectations makes the first day back smoother and helps everyone adjust faster.
2. Streamline School Supplies
Avoid the chaos of last-minute shopping by making a checklist. Stick to the essentials first, then add extras if needed. Keep supplies organised in labelled containers or drawers at home, so your child always knows where to find them.
3. Plan Meals in Advance
Packed lunches and after-school snacks can eat into valuable time. Create a weekly meal plan to save stress and money. Batch cooking at the weekend also ensures there’s always something healthy and quick on hand.
4. Create a Homework Zone
A dedicated, distraction-free area encourages focus and productivity. Stock it with stationery, chargers, and good lighting to avoid the “Mum/Dad, where’s my…?” panic every evening.
5. Use Self Storage to Declutter
The start of a new school year is the perfect time to reassess your home space. Outgrown uniforms, old sports kits, seasonal items, and excess furniture can quickly take over cupboards and bedrooms. This is where self storage comes in. At Cookes Storage, we provide secure, flexible solutions to help you free up valuable space at home. By storing items you don’t need every day, you create room for a more organised, stress-free family routine – just in time for the school year.
6. Stay Ahead with a Family Calendar
From PE days to parents’ evenings, the school year can feel like a logistical marathon. A shared calendar – whether on the wall or digital – keeps everyone aligned and reduces missed commitments.
Getting ready for a new term doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By following these back to school tips, you’ll keep your home and family life organised, efficient, and stress-free. And with the added support of self storage from Cookes, you can start the school year with clarity and confidence.