Back to school tips from the Ministry of Education

Kiwi kids will be heading back to school over the next few weeks, and the Ministry of Education is offering some tips to help children get prepared.

According to a Ministry website post, there are several websites parents can head to for help getting back-to-school ready.

The Ministry suggests parents head to Trade Me or uniformme for second hand uniforms.

For ideas of healthy, easy lunches, parents can check out the kiwifamilies website.

Many schools run 'walking school buses'. If a child's school doesn't run one, parents can check out the walking school bus coordinators guide from the NZTA.

Parents can head to the education counts and the Education Review Office websites for  school profiles, contact information and information about primary and secondary schools in their area.

"All the evidence shows that attending school regularly has a significantly positive impact on your child's learning and progress," the Ministry says. "Even a few days absence can result in your child falling behind.

Visit the parents website for more information.