We get it – after a long, sunshine-filled summer of late bedtimes and icecream overloads, the idea of heading back to school can feel like a major buzzkill. But here’s the good news: getting a reluctant child excited for the school year is easier than it looks and doesn’t have to end in tears (from you or them). As the go-to experts in fun, Wicked Uncle know a thing or two about turning the “Back to School Blues” into a celebration.
From snazzy stationery to surprise Friday treats, we’ve pulled together 10 clever ways to make your child actually look forward to that first day back. Whether they’re the artsy type, the sporty one, or a snack fanatic, there’s something here to bring them around. Ready to hit reset and start the school year with a smile? Let’s go!
- Snazzy Stationery
- Stylish Accessories
- Fun Packed Lunch
- Make Learning Entertaining
- Post-School Treats
- Weekend Activities
- Playdate Plans
- After School Sports
- Show and Tell
- School Clubs
1. Snazzy Stationery
Forget boring biros! Kick things off with stationery that’s as unique as your child. Think scented highlighters, holographic notebooks and pencils with googly eyes. Creating a “Back to School” supply kit full of fun finds lets kids feel ownership over their gear – and excitement about using it. Suddenly homework doesn’t look so bad when it’s written in rainbow ink. Bonus points for pencil cases with wacky shapes. It’s functional and funky.
2. School in Style
When kids feel good about what they’re wearing, it shows. Back-to-school outfits aren’t just about new shoes – they’re about self-expression. How about some quirky socks, colourful shoelaces or funky beanies? These small touches can make a big difference in morning enthusiasm. Let them style their look, and walking into school will feel more like walking onto a runway. Confidence? Activated.
3. Fun Packed Lunch
Say goodbye to soggy sandwiches and hello to lunchtime excitement! Bento-style lunch boxes filled with mini wraps, fruit cut into stars, and the occasional surprise treat (think: a sticker, a joke card, or a bite-sized sweet) turn the midday meal into something to look forward to. Let your child help with packing – they’ll be more likely to eat it and love it.
4. Make Learning Entertaining
Who says educational tools can’t double as toys? Think solar-powered robot kits, crystal-growing sets, or books packed with fun facts. These learning aids don’t just keep kids curious – they show that learning doesn’t stop at the school gates. Sprinkle in a few of these gifts in the first few weeks back and watch as curiosity takes over. It’s like sneaking veggies into pasta dishes… very effective!
5. Post-School Treats
Now, at Wicked Uncle we know that treats cannot be a regular occurrence, but after a long school day, they are necessary. If you’re struggling to deal with the latest ‘I don’t want to go back!’ tantrum, you could suggest that they may get a small, sweet treat every Friday – if they’re well behaved, of course! And if you want something a little more exciting than a pit-stop at the local shops, why not try something a bit funkier…
6. Weekend Activities
Weekends are prime time for family fun. Plan low-stress, high-fun activities like a trip to the cinema, a family quiz night, or dinner at their favourite restaurant. When kids know the weekend will hold something special, the school week feels more like a countdown to excitement than a drag. Even something as simple as a Saturday pancake breakfast can become a family tradition they look forward to all week.
7. Playdate Plans
Sometimes, school’s biggest draw is the friends. Make the most of it by setting up a few after-school or weekend playdates early in the term. Whether it’s a park hangout or a board game marathon at home, knowing they’ll get quality time with their favourite people adds a major excitement boost.
8. After School Sports
Energy to burn? Channel it into team sports. Signing your child up for something they enjoy – be it football, basketball or swimming – gives them something physical to look forward to after the bell rings. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about socialising, building confidence, and learning discipline in a fun, supportive environment. Plus, they’ll sleep like logs – score!
9. Show and Tell
Ease first-day nerves by letting your child bring a souvenir from their summer holidays for a little Show and Tell. Whether it’s a shell from the beach, a postcard, or a funny photo, this is great way to keep them excited about the break they just had – while helping them realise that the school term doesn’t mark the end of that enjoyment. Summer memories last forever!
10. School Clubs
New year, new hobby! Encourage your child to join a school club or try something different this term – chess, drama, robotics, gardening – you name it. Clubs add structure to the week and offer kids a chance to discover hidden talents or make new friends. Who knows – they might just become a county chess champion…!
Heading back to school doesn’t have to be a total buzzkill. With a little creativity, some cool gear, and a few sweet surprises, you can turn the end of summer into the beginning of something exciting. So dust off those backpacks and get ready to launch the school year with smiles all around. Trust us – it’ll be their best year yet.
For more great ideas to keep children excited about school, check out our best educational toys!
I wrote a song about a tortilla. Well actually, it’s more of a rap.
