Getting children back to school mode can either be a daunting experience or fun. From resuming the getting-up-early routine to packing school lunches that ar eboth wholesome and delicious. Getting it right is an important addition to your kid’s entire schooling experience.

For lifestyle influencer, twin and presenter Millicent Mashile, it’s all about having a strategy in place. The 35-year-old is a mother of twin sons, of school going age, and one baby girl, who is still an infant. 

She chats to Batswadi about her back to school routine.

What’s your favourite part about back to school?

Back to School brings a lot of structure to my home, that’s my favourite part. We go back to routine, which makes things very easy for me. I also love that I can work from home, with no interruptions.

What do you dread most about back to school?

Managing my kids’ busy lives while trying to manage my own is a lot to handle. My kids have school, sports, extra classes and I need to be present for all those activities while being a working mom.

How do you mentally prepare your children for a new school year?

I believe kids adjust very easily, so socially I didn’t have to do much. My kids are social and love making new friends. I normally just affirm them on a daily basis, encourage them to be confident. Preparing them academically for school is also a standard in our home, lots of study and reading time during holidays.

What’s your favourite / quick go to meal for your kids’ lunch box?

Bacon and Cheese Toast.

What advice can you give to parents that have kids at school for the first time?

Allow your kids to discover the outside world, let them spread their wings. Affirm them daily and always have a conversation after school to check in how they are doing.

What’s your one wish for your kid/s for 2023?

I wish for my kids to achieve all their academic goals, do well in sports and be confident in who they are.