“Parents, be mindful of your emotions during this time,” says Noosha. “If you’re stressed, your children will pick up on that and react the same. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or fatigued it’s important to acknowledge how you feel and make a change for the better… Do you need an extra-tong shower or a cup of tea in silence?”

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The Daily Edition host and mum-of-two Sally Obermeder has a fun lunch-making hack the kids (and parents!) will love.

“Keep plastic tubs in the pantry and fridge labelled ‘lunch,” she tells. “You may have one for fruit, one for main items like sandwiches and one for snacks. You can create any categories you like. The kids can take one item from each tub for their lunch box each morning. This means they’re packing their lunch so you don’t have to!”

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Noosha suggests we should be teaching our children what prioritising is and practise with them how to do it.

“That way it will ensure the most important tasks always get done and they can better understand the concept of time management,” she says. “Also, don’t forget to teach the kids how to delegate among one another – this can really reduce stress for parents!

Going back to school can be a stressful time for children, too, so it’s important to ask how they’re feeling. “Things like bullying, learning difficulties and homework can cause children an immense amount of stress, so take time to listen to the things they’re telling you,” says Noosha.

How frustrating is it when your child comes home with the wrong pair of shoes? “Label kid’s shoes with half their name inside the left shoe and half the name inside the right.” says Sally. “If their name is spelled out then they know which goes on the left foot and which on the right foot. A good way to label shoes in this way is to take out the inner sole and iron on a label.”

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Set aside periods when you’re able to spend quality time together as a family, and for parents as couple,” says Noosha. “And don’t forget ‘me time’. Practise downtime as a way to wind down from the hype of the school holidays.”

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“Try to arrange some play dates with other children from your child’s school prior to them heading back,” says Noosha. “This will allow them to reconnect and make the first day less stressful.”

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“Ensure everyone in the family is getting quality, uninterrupted sleep,” says Noosha. “That means limiting screen time before bed! Avoid sugars before bed, avoid stimulation and create a routine that’s easy to maintain.”

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Plan a reward for your child for finishing the first day at school successfully. Tell them that you have a surprise waiting for them when they come home, but only if they behave well at school and managed to ace the first day. you can prepare a nice meal with some of their favourite foods, plus a small gift to reward and encourage them.

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Photo: Unsplash

Text: Bauer