As the new school term gets underway, parents have been reminded that sending children to school involves more than uniforms, school bags and timetables, but also emotional and mental preparation at home. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says many parents ensure children are physically ready for school, but equal attention must be given to their emotional wellbeing. “If they’re getting bullied, it’s something that parents need to be able to pick up and ensure that children get the right emotional and mental support. It is not easy when parents are working, and we often leave our children to gadgets, but children are completely dependent on adults. She called on parents, teachers and communities to work together to create a positive and supportive school experience, including avoiding fear-based messaging such as warning children that teachers will punish them, which can create anxiety before a child even enters the classroom.