Beyond Buying Books: A Back To School Guide For Parents

Back-to-school in the Caribbean often means a rush for uniforms, lunch kits, and textbooks. But preparation isn’t just about supplies— it’s about equipping your child emotionally, socially, and mentally for the year ahead.

In our work with education-focused clients, Accela has observed that the children who thrive are those whose parents prepare them for more than academics. This means teaching them how to navigate new routines, form healthy relationships, and advocate for themselves.

Here’s how to prepare your child beyond the shopping list:

• Ease into routines: Start waking them earlier a week before term, and rehearse morning and homework schedules.
• Talk about social dynamics: Discuss how to make friends, handle disagreements, and recognise signs of bullying. Role-play scenarios so they feel     confident speaking up.
• Empower self-advocacy: Encourage children to tell a teacher when they need help.  Let them practise what they might say if they’re struggling with a subject     or situation.
• Build     school relationships: Meet teachers early, introduce yourself to deans and     principals, and keep communication lines open. Respectful parent-school     collaboration sets the tone for mutual support.

Most our schools in the Caribbean have an unwavering and streamlined focus on academics more so than psychological and social development. Most teachers do not see “parenting” and “counselling” as part of their work description. Teachers expect children to come to school already well-raised, well-fed, well-socialized and able to self-discipline to sit stilland focus for 20-40 minute classes. The children who are unable to do this are not often met with understanding or patience by teachers and administrators.

A Jamaican educator once told us, “Parents are the first teachers, and the most consistent ones.” By preparing our children for the people side of school life — not just the academics — we nurture resilience, confidence, and curiosity. That’s the kind of preparation that lasts far beyond the classroom.

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