A study of 1,000 parents reveals that a quarter believe the back-to-school period is the most stressful time of year, even more so than Christmas shopping. Footwear retailer Deichmann commissioned the research, which found that shoes are the toughest uniform item to buy.
Parental struggles with uniforms
Over half (54%) have had disputes with their children over trying on uniforms, and a third (33%) have lost sleep worrying about getting everything ready. Despite this, 28% typically shop in the final fortnight of the summer holidays.
More than three-quarters (78%) struggle to find the correct size or required items when shopping, and 58% make three or more separate trips before completing their back-to-school shopping.
Expert advice on reducing stress
Kylie Griffiths, a wellness expert working with Deichmann, said: "These results demonstrate how stressful the back-to-school period is. Parents are juggling logistics, expectation and emotions all at once – but planning ahead, sharing responsibilities and lowering the pressure to be perfect can all help lighten the load."
Griffiths added: "The mental load for parents and caregivers is huge and with growing financial pressures, parents need all the help they can get. Shopping with a list of priorities - fit, function, budget and your child's input - helps parents feel more confident and less overwhelmed."
Financial impact
Parents spend an average of £62.71 per year on school shoes for each child. Nearly six in ten (59%) say back-to-school shopping is pricier than in previous years.
Josephine Soei, from Deichmann, said: "We know how stressful back-to-school shopping can be and strive to make things as easy as possible for parents. By having our stock available ready to select on the shop floor, it helps minimise stress when shopping with children."
