After a blissful two-month holiday filled with family adventures and lazy afternoons, Florence Maina, a dedicated mother of one, gears up for back-to-school.

With the holiday spirit lingering, she approached the transition with a mix of nostalgia and eagerness.

Ms Maina says "I utilized the holiday break wisely, blending relaxation with a subtle undertone of preparation. As the calendar flipped to the new year, I embarked on a strategic plan to ensure my daughter, Naomi, seamlessly transitioned back into the school routine."

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The first order of business was a thorough review of Naomi’s school supplies.

Ms Maina checked off the list, replenishing notebooks, sharpening pencils, and ensuring the backpack was sturdy for the upcoming academic challenges.

She even added a personal touch, slipping a note of encouragement into one of the compartments, ready to surprise Naomi on her return to school.

"Recognizing the importance of a healthy routine, I have gradually adjusted Naomi's bedtime in the two weeks leading up to school. The transition has been smooth, with a gradual shift from late-night movies to a more school-friendly sleep schedule, ensuring Naomi would be well-rested for the nearing school days," she states.

One the other hand, as the two-month holiday unfolds, the mother of five, Grace Wamuyu finds herself caught in a whirlwind of family chaos.

Grace Wamuyu, mother of five, during an interview.

Photo credit: WINNIE KIMANI/MTAA WANGU

Despite the seemingly ample time, the impending back-to-school preparations loomed over her like an insurmountable task. Juggling the demands of five children, each with unique needs and preferences, she felt overwhelmed.

The mother says "I spent the holiday shuttling between playdates, sibling squabbles, and the constant mess that seemed to follow my brood. As the days dwindled, I realized the untouched school supply list mocking me from the kitchen counter. The daunting task of shopping for uniforms, books, and stationery was a mountain I wasn't prepared to climb.”

Each time she attempted to start the preparations, a chorus of "Mom, I need help!" echoed through the house. Amidst the chaos, she longed for a moment of peace to plan and organize.

The clock relentlessly ticked away, and the approaching school year felt like an impending storm she isn't ready to weather.

Related: Nakuru parents share tips on keeping children engaged during the holiday

In a quiet moment, surrounded by scattered toys and the laughter of her children, the mother sighs "I acknowledge the inevitability of the back-to-school rush. Despite the challenges, I know that somehow, like every year before, I will navigate the frenzy and make it through."

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