Getting kids back into the school routine: A parent's guide

As the summer draws to a close and the school year approaches, many parents find themselves faced with the challenge of transitioning their kids back into the school routine. After months of relaxed schedules, late bedtimes, and leisurely mornings, it's time to reestablish a sense of structure and routine. Here are some effective strategies to help your kids ease back into the school year smoothly.

The basics of setting up a healthy routine with your kids

• Be consistent: Stick to your routine as much as possible once it's established

• Make it fun: Let your child help create the routine or make a chart to track new habits

• Be patient: It can take time for kids to adjust to a new routine

8 Tips for getting your kids back into the school routine

1. Start early with a gradual bedtime transition

One of the most effective ways to help kids adjust to the school routine is to start early. Begin by gradually shifting bedtimes and wake-up times a few weeks before school starts, allowing their bodies to adjust naturally. Easing into the routine also reduces the shock of an abrupt change, making it more likely to stick.

Tip: Move bedtime and wake up 15 - 30 minutes earlier each day until you reach the time your kids will be going to bed and waking up during the school year.

2. Reestablish a morning routine

Mornings before school can be chaotic, especially when everyone is rushing to get out the door. Creating a consistent morning routine for your family helps children feel more prepared and sets them up for success throughout the day.

Ideas for a smooth morning routine:

• Encourage your kids to lay out clothes the night before so they don’t have to spend time choosing in the morning

• Prepare lunches, water bottles, and backpacks the night before as well to free up some time in the morning for you and your kids

• Meal prep breakfast for the first week back so you can adjust to the school year without having to worry about making breakfast in the morning

3. Create a homework/study schedule

A significant part of your child’s school year routine will be carving out time to complete homework assignments, projects, and study. Work with your kids to set a dedicated time and place for homework to help them focus and develop good study habits.

Tips for effective homework time:

• Whether your kid needs a quiet, distraction-free desk or they do better work at the kitchen table with some music playing – designate an area for studying that meets their needs

• Set a regular time each day for homework, such as when they get home from school or after dinner

• Encourage your child to write down assignments and due dates in a planner/calendar to help them learn how to manage their time

• Use kid-friendly smart home devices to remind your kids when it’s time for homework or studying

4. Limit screen time

Summer often means more relaxed rules around screen time, but as school approaches, it’s important to reinstate limits on electronic devices. Having limits on screen time can help ensure kids get enough sleep and are able to focus on their schoolwork when they need to.

Tips to help your children manage their screen time:

• Set specific times when electronics are and are not allowed like for example, putting all devices away an hour before bedtime

• Encourage alternatives to screen-based entertainment like reading, puzzles, or outdoor play

• Consider what electronics are necessary for homework as some assignments might require your child to use a computer or other device. If your child has a difficult time staying on task when using a device, try setting up parental controls to help limit their access to distractions during that time

5. Encourage healthy habits

It’s no secret that a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are crucial for children’s well-being, but don’t forget it can help set them up for success in the school year ahead. Start with the basics and build on them depending on your child’s unique needs:

• Ensure your child starts their day with a healthy meal to fuel their body and mind

• Encourage at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, which may already be covered by the school through their physical education class

• Ensure your child gets the recommended amount of sleep for their age group

6. Discuss goals, anxiety, and excitement

Returning to school can be both exciting and anxiety-inducing for kids. Open conversations about their goals, what they’re expecting, and how they feel about the upcoming school year can be very beneficial for easing their worries.

Strategies for managing emotions:

• Talk about expectations, concerns, and encourage your child to express any fears or excitement about the new school year

• If possible, visit the school or classroom before the first day to familiarize them with the environment

• Try scheduling a playdate with a classmate to reignite their bond prior to the start of the school year - having a friend can help ease social anxiety

• Reassure them that feeling nervous is normal and that you are there to support them

• Share your own experiences and highlight the fun aspects of learning and making friends

Learn about more ways you can help your children prepare for going back to school.

7. Plan an after-school routine

Your child’s after-school routine will depend on whether they are involved in activities and how they get home (ie, bus, pick up, etc), so it’s important to create a plan based on their schedule. For example, if your child gets dropped off at home by the bus and you’re still at work, discuss what they should do to get inside and what they can do until you’re home.

Tips for a better after-school routine

• Meal prep healthy snacks so your kids can have a go-to food that you know is good for them

• Try installing a smart lock so you can see when your kids let themselves in. Even if they forget their key, you will have peace of mind knowing your child can still get inside your home with a fob, their phone, or from you letting them in remotely. You can even use a unique code for each child to know who gets home and when

• Discuss home safety with your child so they know what to do if something happens while you’re not home

8. Lead by example

Remember that old saying “children are like sponges” ? Well it comes from a place of truth as children often mimic their parents’ behaviors and attitudes. Demonstrating a positive attitude towards the school routine can influence your child to adopt a similar mindset. You can try showing them how you manage your time and responsibilities to help them understand why you’re encouraging a routine for the school year.

Conclusion

Getting back into the school routine doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and a lot of patience, you can help your children transition smoothly and set them up for a successful school year. By focusing on routines, healthy habits, and open communication, you’re not only preparing them for school but also teaching them valuable life skills. Here’s to a great start to the new school year!