High-quality, handmade leather punching bags from Amsterdam.

Back to School – Summer is finally here, and then, in what feels like the blink of an eye, it’s over. The backpack is waiting. The alarm clock is going off early again. And your child? They come home exhausted, drop their backpack, and just need a moment to catch their breath.

That's normal. But what happens next makes all the difference.

In this article, you'll learn what really happens during the transition from preschool to school—emotionally, physically, and in everyday life. And you'll find out what you, as a parent, can do to help your child adjust smoothly.

I have three daughters: Irene, Jean, and Veronika.

And I was the mom who asked myself the same question every time my child started school: What should I get my child for the first day of school?

Not just any little trinket for the back-to-school goodie bag. Not necessarily something big or expensive, either. But something special. A gift that brings joy, that doesn’t end up forgotten in some drawer after a few weeks, and that might even help a little as they grow up.

Children who spend time in the woods rarely get sick. Why? They’re out in the fresh air every day. Rain, snow, sunshine—it doesn’t matter at all. Their bodies learn to adapt to different temperatures and aren’t made weak by overheated rooms.

If you're worried right now and thinking, "What? Even during heavy downpours?!" then I can reassure you: There's always a warm shelter to take refuge in.

Most pathogens are spread through airborne droplets—small, crowded spaces facilitate the spread of pathogens. That simply doesn't happen outdoors in the woods.

While other kids are struggling with their cough syrup during cold season, your little one is collecting pinecones and carefree jumping over tree trunks.