The first day of school.
Four little words that can make your heart swell with pride, ache with nostalgia, and flutter with nerves — all at the same time.
If your little one is starting school for the very first time, you might already be on a roller-coaster of emotions. You’ve bought the uniform (that seems two sizes too big but will probably fit perfectly by Christmas), labelled every item in sight, and practised the school run until you could do it with your eyes closed. But nothing quite prepares you for the moment they disappear into that classroom and the door shuts behind them.
Whether they skipped in without a backward glance or clung to your leg like a baby koala, it’s a milestone for both of you. And while it’s their adventure, it’s a big change in your world too.
The Morning Drop-Off – A Tale of Two Hearts
For many parents, drop-off time feels like an odd mix of relief, pride, and “wait, why are my eyes leaking?”
The truth is, school life is a new chapter for your child and for you. It’s the first big step towards their independence. One moment they’re tugging on your sleeve asking for another snack, the next they’re sitting cross-legged in assembly learning about “golden rules” and how to hold a pencil “the proper way.”
And while you’re proud of them, there’s no denying that your heart feels just a little bit empty. That’s where something tangible — a little daily connection — can make all the difference.
One of my favourite keepsakes for this moment is my Hug Split Heart keyring. It’s a heart-shaped design split into two halves: one for you, one for your little one. You can pop one half on your house keys, and the other on their school bag. Every morning before the school run, you “match” the hearts together, and at pick-up time you reunite them again. It’s a lovely way for both of you to feel connected throughout the day — a little silent hug until you’re together again.
HUG Starting School Keyrings
The perfect gift for when your little one starts school
When the House Falls Quiet…
Here’s the thing no one really tells you: the first day they’re at school, the house might feel too quiet. That background hum of chatter, giggles, and “Muuuuuum?” vanishes. And while you might think you’ll relish the peace, it can feel strangely unsettling at first.
So, what do you do with yourself when you suddenly have hours of daylight to fill? Here are some ideas to keep your mind busy and your heart happy:
1. Rediscover Your Own Hobbies
Maybe you’ve always wanted to get back into painting, knitting, baking, or reading a book without having to re-read the same paragraph three times. This is your moment to dust off that hobby that’s been tucked away for years.
2. Get Moving
Walking, running, yoga — whatever you choose, moving your body is a brilliant way to lift your mood and boost your energy. Bonus: you’ll arrive at pick-up time with those feel-good endorphins making you extra smiley.
3. Start a Little “Project”
It could be decluttering one room at a time, redecorating a space, or finally sorting out those photos on your phone (and maybe even printing them!). Small projects can give you a sense of achievement — and keep you distracted until school’s out.
4. Meet a Friend for Coffee
Now’s the perfect time to catch up with friends — especially those who also have children in school. You’ll swap stories, share laughs, and maybe even discover that you’re not the only one who found the first day strangely emotional.
5. Learn Something New
From online courses to local workshops, there are so many ways to learn a new skill. Whether it’s photography, a language, or bread-making, the possibilities are endless — and it feels good to invest in you.
6. Have a Little ‘You Time’ Without the Guilt
A long bath. A solo trip to the shops. A lunch you didn’t have to share. Little pockets of self-care aren’t indulgent — they’re necessary.
The Afternoon Reunion
No matter how you spend your day, nothing beats that moment at pick-up when you spot their little face beaming at you. They’ll have stories to tell, art projects to show, and possibly a jumper missing (already!).
And when they see your half of the Hug Split Heart keyring, you might just get an extra big squeeze — the kind that says, “I missed you, too.”
The school years will be full of these moments — some big, some small, but all worth cherishing. This first term might feel like a big leap, but it’s the start of so many new adventures, for both of you.
Final Thought
If you’re feeling a bit wobbly about your little one starting school, know that you’re not alone. Thousands of mums and dads across the country are having the exact same teary-yet-proud moment. It’s okay to miss them. It’s okay to count down the minutes until you can pick them up. And it’s also okay to enjoy the time for yourself.
After all, the school day might be long, but those after-school cuddles? They’re worth the wait.