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As summer winds down and school begins, many parents dread the thought of getting their child out of summer mode and back into a school routine. Late summer nights are replaced with earlier bedtimes, lazy summer mornings turn into rushed and often stressful attempts at getting out the door on time. Plus, children often experience anxieties about returning to school that make the change more difficult.
If you can relate and are wondering how to start easing your child back into a school schedule, read on for a few quick tips to help ease the transition from the beach to the classroom for you and your child.
Validation
Assure your child that it's normal to feel nervous or apprehensive about starting school. Everyone, including adults, struggles with getting back into the school routine. Letting your child know they're not alone can help them feel understood and heard.
Morning Routines
With the start of the school year comes a new morning routine. Discuss with your child what their morning will look like during the school year. Clear expectations help your child know what to expect, making the transition smoother. Provide simple, well-defined steps for their routine, and consider creating a visual schedule with pictures. This can be a great reference and help keep your child on track.
Homework
Transitioning back to homework can be challenging after summer break. Like the morning routine, a structured schedule can help your child stay focused and motivated. Encourage them to complete homework right after school, taking advantage of daylight hours. Parental support and snacks can keep their energy up and provide the motivation needed to tackle tough assignments. If your child has a busy schedule with sports or other activities, understanding their hard work and giving frequent positive feedback can help them stay on track.
Bedtime
Adjusting to a new bedtime can be one of the toughest transitions. Children may be used to staying up and sleeping in later during the summer. Establishing a nighttime routine with clear expectations and simple, step-by-step instructions can help. Visual reminders can also assist your child in following their routine. Setting time limits for activities like watching TV or playing video games can ensure they wind down properly each evening.
With a little bit of effort, shifting back into a school routine before the first day of school hits can be a stress-free way to ensure a smooth start to the new school year.
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