Happy New Year! As we step into 2021, the start of a new year is often a time of reflection and new beginnings. For me, this typically spirals into a guilt fest of everything I am still to achieve from the previous year:
- I’m going to lose 5kg.
- I’m going to get on top of my email inbox.
- I’m going to get the kids to eat something other than mac ’n’ cheese.
- I’m going to be a more present parent.
But, if 2020 has taught me anything, it is to drastically lower the self criticism and accept those things you cannot control. Feeling suitably equipped for a zombie apocalypse (or whatever else the world may throw at us) and totally accepting of my COVID curves, I have a totally different view on the new year this time around:
- Curvy is cuddly.
- Let’s just focus on being a bit fitter.
- Your inbox has over 24,000 messages, accept you will never find the end.
- Pasta is a staple food. So is Vegemite toast. We should be grateful we can still get both at the supermarket.
- You know what? I really am trying my best.
And as I peek cautiously around the corner at whatever the new year has in store, I’m quietly optimistic about 2021. I’ve seen a surge in small businesses supporting each other, schools doing amazing things to keep kids engaged and learning despite restrictions, and communities pulling together to help those in need. I have no idea what the year ahead will hold, but I know we are going to tackle it as best we can, together.
And there’s nothing better to put a spring in your step than getting ready for a new school year! It’s such an exciting time—the little ones are heading to Kindy for the first time, the new Preppies are in their oversized, sparkling new uniforms, and the Year 7s are getting ready for a whole new adventure at secondary school. So, this issue is all about getting back to school! We explore the merit of making a school switch in Year 5, and we have some great tips on nurturing those precious early friendships. Plus, with all the must-have back-to-school gear, freezable lunchbox recipes, books, games and more, we have everything to kick-start the kids’ 2021 school year.