Back-to-school preparations focus on costs and student well-being

As the new academic year approaches, families are preparing for the return to school through both financial and psychological readiness. In Bahrain, parents report spending between 70 and 100 dinars per student on essential supplies such as bags, stationery, shoes, and clothing. While some schools provide certain items like uniforms and stationery, families continue to manage the purchase of personal items and meal preparations.

Beyond material needs, experts emphasize the importance of psychological preparation to mitigate student anxiety, particularly for children entering school for the first time. Mental health consultant Dr. Walid Hindi suggests that parents should speak positively about school, involve children in choosing their supplies, and gradually train them to be away from caregivers to ease separation anxiety.

Regarding the academic calendar, the Ministry of Education and Technical Education has announced that the new school year for transfer and certificate classes in government schools will officially begin on Saturday, September 12, with some schools starting on Sunday, September 13.