Ever send your child running into school only to remember that you’ve forgotten to pack something? Mornings before school can be hectic and sometimes it’s hard to keep up with your own schedule, never mind your little ones!
We’ve put together a list of some schoolbag essentials to help your busy mornings get a little easier!
Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
Make sure your kids stay energised and ready to concentrate by filling up their school bags (and stomachs) with organic, healthy, wholesome food that will last throughout the day.
Breakfasts
Breakfasts should be quick, easy and optional to take on-the-go. Studies have shown that a healthy breakfast can help kids to concentrate better and longer in class – making for a great start to the day. See our ‘5 Too Busy for Brekkie’ ideas here.
Lunch
Your kid’s lunchbox should be packed full of delicious organic lunch options that will help to fill up small stomachs but not leave them feeling sluggish and tired in the afternoon. Here’s some easy organic lunchbox recipes.
Snacks
If you can stock up lunch boxes with healthy organic snacks, kids are less likely to buy lollies and sugary drinks to keep them going. Organic veggie sticks and dips, savoury or sweet muffins, fresh organic fruit and yoghurts are just some examples of healthy snacks that will keep them going.
Water Bottle
Reusable metal water bottles keep drinks cool and are better for the environment then single-use plastic bottles. Plus they come in an array of cool designs to keep kids happy!
Lunch Money
If your child prefers to buy lunch at school, then they’ll need some money. If cash isn’t cool, you can now invest in pocket money cards – debit cards that can be limited to a set amount each day and linked to a separate account. No need to worry about finding an ATM. Just top up through your online banking or card app – simple!
Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
In our beautifully sunny country, its vital that your kids are sun-smart and sun-ready even during school days.
A hat and sunglasses are a must, whilst a natural, organic sunscreen will protect their skin from harmful sun damage without exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Sports kits
Keeping up with your child’s school schedule yet? Well, you’d better make sure their sports kits are ready to go when needed. For outdoor sports, make sure you have the sun protection ready. For the pool, make sure their togs, goggles and towel are in the bag with a sun-protecting rashie if needed.
Medication
Depending on your child’s age and condition, they may be required to take their own medicine and accompanying instructions to school. Always inform school staff of any serious medical conditions so that they are aware. For older kids, having a small first aid kit with band aids, painkillers and antiseptic wipes will always come in handy.
First aid supplies should always be accompanied with hand sanitiser and a pack of tissues. You may be surprised to learn that certified organic hand sanitiser does exist (true story!), minus the synthetic chemicals and therefore minus the worry.
Sanitary Items
Again, depending on your child’s age, they may need to pack some emergency sanitary items in their bags. Choosing organic cotton products is not only better for the environment, but better for your child as they are free from synthetic chemicals, dyes and organic cotton is gentle on the body, especially in more sensitive areas.
Electronic Gadgets
Gone are the days of endless notebooks and paper. Make sure you pack the correct gadgets, gadget covers and chargers as per your child’s needs. Always speak to your children to make sure they understand the importance of keeping gadgets safe and using them at the correct times at school.
Homework
Last but not least, always make sure they pack their homework! It’s a good to get into the habit of asking your child about homework each afternoon after school to keep tabs on how much they get and when they need to hand it back to their teachers. Keeping a schedule of homework and due dates in a diary will help your child to feel less overwhelmed and more ontop of their workload.
Need a list to keep you organised? Click on the below School Bag Checklist below to download and print your own copy. Enjoy!