Written by Level Home Staff
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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!