As the new school year approaches, it's crucial to ensure your child is ready for a productive and enjoyable learning experience. A well-prepared student can face challenges with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time parent or you've been in the parenting game for years, this guide covers five must-have school supplies every primary school child should have.
1. High-Quality Backpack for Primary School
A durable and spacious backpack is vital for carrying books, supplies, and personal items. Look for a backpack that fits your child comfortably and has adjustable straps. Features like multiple compartments and padded back support can enhance functionality and comfort.
I particularly think this is an important item because when a child isn't organised and equipped for their day, this can impact how they perform in the classroom. If they haven't packed a good lunch, they will lose energy during the day. If they haven't brought their P.E. gear, then they may not be able to participate. If they haven't brought stationery to school or have any in their desks or trays, they may put their focus on worrying about this fact, rather than listening about what they need to do or they may not learn in the moment. So, making sure they have a great backpack - that is packed and ready to go - is vital when going to school.
A high-quality backpack prevents back strain and encourages organisation. Studies show that children with organised backpacks are 30% more prepared for daily activities.
You may like to teach your child to keep their backpack tidy, too. Having pride in their work and supplies can boost their engagement in schoolwork.
2. Basic Stationery Supplies for Primary School
Every child needs essential stationery supplies like pencils, erasers, markers, and exercise books. A well-stocked pencil case helps children feel prepared. Involve your child in selecting their stationery to encourage personal attachment and excitement.
These supplies facilitate learning and foster creativity. Encourage your child to express themselves through art projects or journaling. Children who regularly engage in creative activities perform 20% better academically, as it enhances their critical thinking skills.
Having fun or interesting looking stationery are great motivators, incentives or treats for good work, good effort and good behaviour throughout the year, too. So, if you have the time and money, you could stock up on some quality stationery incentives to hand out throughout the year. You may like to take advantage of the 'back to school' bargains that stores offer in January before school begins, as well.
3. Lunchbox and Water Bottle for Primary School
A reliable lunchbox and a sturdy water bottle can make lunchtime enjoyable and healthy. Choose containers that keep food fresh and are easy to clean. Insulated or eco-friendly options not only support health but also encourage environmental responsibility.
Healthy lunches and good hydration significantly affect your child's mood and concentration. Studies indicate that well-hydrated children score 15% higher on cognitive tests. Engage your child in selecting healthy lunch options to teach them about nutrition and create excitement around mealtime.
We know very well too that a New Zealand summer is a hot summer, so however we can get our children to drink water and stay hydrated is a massive win for us. Sometimes having a cool drink bottle helps and if you are on a bit of a budget, find stickers of their favourite characters and pop them on their drink bottle and/or lunch boxes. Having stickers on your child's drink bottle can also stop other students accidently taking your child's drink bottle home with them or drinking from them, as it is common for children to have the same colour and brand of drink bottle.
4. Reading Material for Primary School
Books are a gateway to endless opportunities. Ensure your child has a selection of age-appropriate reading materials, such as storybooks or comics. Frequent reading stimulates creativity and builds literacy skills crucial for primary school success.
Graphic novels are great for boys in particular. It's what I use to hook their interest in reading when they do not like to read. You can find a whole section of graphic novels for children at your local library too. Pictures keep their interest as well as support their imagination skills. They can also help children understand what's going on if they can't follow along very well.
Encourage regular trips to the library or bookstore and make reading a fun family activity. Statistics show that children who read regularly can improve their vocabulary by 40%, aiding both academics and social interactions.
Most schools will also provide regular reading material that is suitable for their learning level in a book bag. Students are usually encouraged to read the material at home to keep their reading skills moving at the right pace for them.
5. Homework Planner
A homework planner teaches kids a vital skill: time management. Consider investing in a colourful, fun planner to make tracking assignments exciting. Sit down with your child to set up their planner and make it a habit to review it weekly. You can also add any after school commitments to this planner too to support learning how to distribute their time wisely between social, sporty, arty and educational projects.
Using a planner not only promotes academic success but also fosters independence and accountability. Students who utilise planners report a 25% increase in homework completion rates, leading to better grades and overall confidence.
Here is an extra must-have! Book in a weekly tutoring session with me
The 5 physical items I have mentioned are important to prepare for primary school, however, so is making sure your child's learning is on track. I am a qualified teacher who can support your child with literacy (English) and numeracy (Maths).
With my warm and vibrant teaching style, I can make sure your child feels safe and excited to learn and is sitting at the right age level in English, Maths, and the Performing Arts.
Being confident and believing in themselves is a massive part of learning. That is why I prioritise praise and goal setting when I am tutoring primary students and high school students alike. They need to know where they are headed, they need to know how to get there, but more importantly, they need to know they have the ability to get there.
My current promo is $60 for 30 minutes of in-person tutoring. I will come to your home and tutor your child weekly to make sure they are prepared for their schooling.
Setting Your Primary School Child Up for Success
Preparing for the school year involves more than buying books; it's about providing your child with the tools they need to thrive. By investing in these five essential supplies—a high-quality backpack, basic stationery, a reliable lunchbox and water bottle, engaging reading material, and a homework planner—you lay the groundwork for a successful primary school experience.
As a parent, your involvement makes all the difference. Embrace this back-to-school season with enthusiasm and support, guiding your child towards a confident and adventurous learning journey ahead!
All the best,
Tovah
Tovah's Tutoring Company Ltd ®
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