Back to school in January: 5 things you probably should already have done

With South African schools set to open on 14 January 2026, according to the Department of Basic Education, education specialists say parents should already be laying the groundwork to help children return to the classroom with confidence. Inspired Education South Africa’s education and ethos liaison, Lionel Botha, said December should have been treated as “a gentle window to set children up for a smoother start in January”. Botha said one of the most important steps was easing pupils back into structure before the holidays ended.

“During the holidays, bedtimes, screen time and mornings can drift, so easing back toward predictable sleep and daily habits by early January helps enormously.” According to him, predictable routines make the return to school “far less jarring”. Botha encouraged parents to talk openly to their children about the year ahead. “Discuss new teachers, subjects, friendships and goals,” he said.

“Helping them imagine what’s coming reduces anxiety and allows them to return feeling confident and prepared.” He said reading remained one of the easiest ways to keep young minds active without turning the holidays into extra schoolwork. “Reading strengthens vocabulary, concentration and imagination,” Botha explained.