Top tips to save school run stress, from a countdown playlist to emergency car kit

Top tips to save school run stress, from a countdown playlist to emergency car kit

Top tips to save school run stress, from a countdown playlist to emergency car kit

“BACK TO SCHOOL IS MOST STRESSFUL TIME OF YEAR FOR 63% UK PARENTS!”

As the kids finally head back to school, forgotten lunchboxes (51%), getting home to realise you still have your child’s schoolbag (40%) and spills down clean uniforms (40%) are revealed as the top mishaps parents have to deal with on the school run.

Polling 2,000 parents with school age children, the research by Pod, a leading EV charging provider, revealed 57% have forgotten something important on the first day back to school. 

For almost a third (31%) this was ensuring the car was filled up with charge or fuel.


In fact, 63% of parents reveal that the first day back to school is the most stressful day of the year. This feeling doesn’t subside, as over seven in ten (72%) say the school run is the most stressful part of any school day.

Recognising the pressure on parents at this busy time, Pod has teamed up with parenting psychologist Laverne Antrobus to share handy hacks to make the school run smoother.

Laverne Antrobus said: “The school run isn’t just a drive — it’s a mentally challenging obstacle course; juggling uniforms, breakfast, packed lunches, permission slips, and a thousand tiny details that are all urgent at once, including getting yourself ready. However, introducing a few simple changes can help get things in order. These are my favourites:”

And a bonus tip for families with an EV…

 

Pod CEO Melanie Lane added: “As a mum of three, I know first-hand that busy families already have enough on their plate, especially during the chaos of getting kids back to school. That’s why Pod is here to help and make the school run one less thing to worry about.

How Your Flooring Could Be Secretly Affecting Your Family's Mood (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

“For those with an EV or thinking about making the switch, our Pod Drive subscription offers total peace of mind – because not only will you wake up with a full charge ready to go, you’ll also know it’s covered by one simple monthly fee for all your charging needs.”

These hacks could go some way to help the 78% of parents of school age children who say they are looking for ways to be more organised. Being prepared for the school run would mean increased peace of mind (52%) and getting a few minutes of time back (32%) for the busy parents questioned.

Pod Drive, Pod’s industry-first home EV charging subscription, slashes the up-front costs of installing a Pod Point Solo 3S charger from £1,149 to £99*. It also rewards customers with over £170 cashback on a years’ worth of driving if they smart charge their EV with Pod**. 

EV drivers can save further by opting for a dedicated tariff such as EDF’s GoElectric – the cheapest fixed EV tariff available, giving significant savings vs. petrol or diesel.***

The £40 monthly subscription to Pod Drive**** also includes a 48-hour repair or replace service with 24/7 customer support: providing reliable and worry-free EV charging for busy households.

For more information go to podenergy.com 

Georgie Belles Boutique
Building a Brand as a Working Parent: The Bit Nobody Talks About (The Loneliness)

Building a Brand as a Working Parent: The Bit Nobody Talks About (The Loneliness)

Building a brand as a working parent looks great on paper — flexible hours, doing something you love, creating a life that fits around family. But the reality is often messier. You’re juggling school runs and deadlines, client work and packed lunches, confidence wobbles and cash flow worries… and somehow you’re expected to show up online like you’ve got it all under control.

The Balance of Play

The Balance of Play

I hate admitting that because I value play so deeply, especially in those precious early years. It’s how our children learn, explore, imagine and build confidence. But as a mum trying to keep a household running and a business growing, it’s not always easy to appreciate those moments.

Introducing Amanda Marks

Introducing Amanda Marks

We’re thrilled to welcome our new columnist Amanda Marks. Amanda is a Renowned Breastfeeding, Food & Sleep Consultant

With over 40 years of experience supporting families, Amanda Marks is a highly respected breastfeeding, food, and sleep consultant. Based in prestigious locations including 10 Harley Street, London, and Alderley Edge, Cheshire, Amanda has worked with families from diverse backgrounds, including media personalities and royalty, maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality.

Why Family Gardening Is Having a Quiet Comeback

Why Family Gardening Is Having a Quiet Comeback

There’s a noticeable shift happening in how families spend their time. It isn’t loud or trend-led, and it’s rarely documented with before-and-after shots. Instead, it’s quieter and slower, rooted in small routines and shared moments. Family gardening is part of that change.

From Parliament to the Premier League: Campaigning for survivors of domestic abuse during this #16DaysOfActivism

From Parliament to the Premier League: Campaigning for survivors of domestic abuse during this #16DaysOfActivism

Our Head of Social Causes and Sub-Editor Teresa Parker was joined by BROOD Editor-in Chief Lolo Stubbs at an event in Parliament on the 2nd December 2025 to mark ten years of coercive control legislation. Teresa organised the event through her consultancy Teresa Parker Media, in partnership with Hawkins, Laxton & Co, which is run by her former colleagues Clare and Sian.

PETER SIDWELL’S HOMEMADE WAGONWHEELS & HOB-NOB STYLE BISCUITS

PETER SIDWELL’S HOMEMADE WAGONWHEELS & HOB-NOB STYLE BISCUITS

This month, I’m thrilled to share two of our all-time favourite bakes: our homemade Hob Nobs and nostalgic Wagon Wheels. These recipes are more than just sweet treats—they’re time capsules. The Hob Nobs came from a rainy weekend when we had oats, butter, and not much else in the cupboards. The kids loved rolling the dough into little biscuit balls and watching them flatten in the oven. Dipping them in chocolate was the final touch—well, that and licking the spoon clean!

About The Author

Leave a reply