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This year get your children set up for success with these 8 backpack essential items, all which may be purchased through Metro Home Centre (www.mhcworld.co.za).There is a buzz in the air as the anticipation of a brand new year draws closer. A fresh start and the promise of new beginnings mingling with the thrill of gathering with friends and sharing stories of the holidays. An excellent way to foster this excitement and get your children set up for success are with these 8 backpack essentials.

1. Reusable water bottle

Whether it’s post gym class or simply throughout a protracted day, having a reusable bottle will encourage your child to stay hydrated. Water has many benefits, two major ones being increased brain activity and energy, both important aspects for a successful school day.

2. Lunch Box

Wondering whether to buy school lunch or bring your own from home? a decent lunchbox might help make that call easier, and it works great even if you're just packing snacks to keep your child’s energy up throughout the day. Insulated bags work well for keeping lunches hot or cold, and have the added benefit of preventing anything from spilling in a backpack.

3. Pencil Case

A designated spot to store pencils, pens, markers, highlighters, etc. will help your child from needing to dig around the bottom of their bag searching for a writing utensil. Coming to class prepared means they're going to be able to focus and work hard.

4. Headphones

Electronics play a large roll in many classrooms nowadays. Whether the utilization of computers, iPads or tablets, chances are high that your child will come into contact with electronic work. Having their own pair of headphones means they don’t have to worry about borrowing or sharing with their peers.

5. Charger

A spare charger stored in a very backpack will offer you and your child peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about them being disconnected and unable to contact you if they notice their device is running low on battery before soccer practice. If they don’t need it chances are a friend might, and you’ll be glad a spare was available.

6. Notebook

Essential for any school day, keeping an available notebook in your child’s backpack will come in handy. Somewhere to write notes or grab spare paper will surely be necessary during the school day.

7. Hand Sanitizer

The number of germs your child will come into contact with throughout their day is astonishing. Running to the restroom to scrub hands isn't always an option, including before lunch! Having alittle bottle of hand sanitizer available will encourage your child to blast those germs and keep off the inevitable illness that may make its way around school.

8. Have a supply of masks on hand

Learners are expected to wear cloth masks at all times. Teach your child how to wear a face cloth mask, and try to get your child to understand that its important he or she doesn’t fiddle with it.

If a toddler spends zero time during the day right now in a face covering, then that child will have a troublesome time spending four hours wearing one when school re-open in January. We need to build up this endurance gradually.

You’ve Got This Mama! Like we said before, we all know that this year looks different for many families. We are trying to set the tone for our children and stay positive! Hopefully, these items will help you feel more prepared for the school year!