Four things parents should get right before the school bell rings

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican saying “free paper bun” signals the familiar rush of the back-to-school season, with attention turning to booklists, uniforms, school fees and transportation. However, while children prepare to return to the classroom, parents should also prepare for the role they will play in the year ahead.

The National Parenting Support Commission (NPSC), Jamaica’s lead government agency for parenting support, is reminding parents that, “Back-to-school readiness extends beyond having the right books and supplies; it also means creating the structure, communication and support children need to learn, adjust and thrive throughout the school year.”

As the new school year approaches, the NPSC is encouraging parents to use the period as an opportunity to reset too, by considering not only whether their children are ready for school, but whether they are ready to support.