Lessons for parents to learn before school starts

As school gates open the Herald on Sunday tracked down tips for parents.

1. Food safety is important during summer, says dietitian Nikki Hart. Protein foods such as eggs and meat can warm up in a lunchbox - creating bacteria that causes food poisoning. One way to keep lunchboxes cold is to half-freeze your child's waterbottle (top it up in the morning with cold water), wrap it in a plastic bag, then place it in the box.

Hydration is important and foods that contain water, such as watermelon, are great.

2. Many parents struggle to pay school fees, but Labour education spokesman Trevor Mallard says they are voluntary.

3. School gear chews through the household budget, so parents can ask office staff about second-hand uniforms.

4. Some teens might want to hang on to long or dyed hair, newly-acquired body piercings or studs.

Education law expert Patrick Walsh warns parents to check their school's policy on grooming and appearance.

5. Get a book out of the library on starting school or one that has tactics on issues such as bullying if you have concerns.