The Indonesian Express
Starting a new school year is often a challenge for parents, especially in getting their children back into the routine and reigniting their school spirit after a long break. The role of parents in supporting their children before the first day of school is crucial, as it can greatly influence their self-confidence, which will be the foundation for their future learning process. IKEA Indonesia is committed to accompanying parents and children in maximizing their preparations for the first day of school through the Back to School program. Ririn Basuki, the Communication & Public Relations Manager of IKEA Indonesia, stated that the Back to School program aims to provide tips and inspiration to parents in reviving their children's school spirit through small changes that can be implemented at home. "As parents, we are expected to understand what our children need to return to school. IKEA's main vision is to create a better everyday life for many people, including parents and children. Therefore, IKEA, as a one-stop shopping solution for all back-to-school needs, provides a variety of products to support children's activities, such as study furniture, stationery, and other supporting equipment that can foster their learning spirit in this new school year," said Ririn. Get ready for your child's first day of school without worries The new school year means new friends, teachers, and classrooms. No matter their age, many children feel anxious about starting or returning to school. It's normal for kids (and their parents) to feel nervous about going back to school. The good news is that there are many things you can do to help prepare for the new school year. Preparing to go back to school often makes parents more stressed because of the many things that need to be prepared in a short amount of time. Child psychologist Fabiola Priscilla M.Psi explains that it's normal for parents to feel stressed before the first day of school, but it can be overcome with careful preparation. For example, shopping for school supplies together with your child, ensuring they get enough sleep, creating a consistent morning routine, and using storage solutions to easily access their school items in the morning. By doing these things, your child can confidently go to school on the first day and beyond. "Thoroughly preparing for school can help teach important life skills to children, such as independence, responsibility, and time management," says Fabiola. Evert F. Fanggidae, the Head of BPK PenaburPondok Indah Elementary School, also emphasizes that teachers play an important role in preparing children for school. Therefore, teachers and parents must work together so that children can confidently navigate their first day of school. "Support in the form of smooth communication between parents and teachers is one of the key factors in a child's success at school. By providing comprehensive information through school guidebooks or offering question and answer forums through group chats, teachers are expected to help reduce the worries of parents and children in facing the first day of school," says Evert.