Going back to school can be stressful for both kids and parents. After a long break, getting back into the routine of school can be hectic. In this blog, I’ll share some tips to help make the transition smoother, so you can focus on the excitement of school and not the stress.
Routines
Having a routine is key to helping kids adjust. By setting clear expectations, children can get used to the rhythm of school life, which will reduce the morning rush and evening stress. One important routine is a good bedtime routine. This helps kids wind down and get enough sleep to feel refreshed for the next school day. We know it can be hard, but consistency is key. It will get easier.
Bedtime Routines: The Calm Before Bed
A good bedtime routine should include limiting screen time at least an hour before bed. Screens can interfere with sleep, so instead, try activities like a calming bath, brushing teeth, or reading a book. Reading before bed is very helpful. For younger children, reading aloud is a calming activity that signals the end of the day. For older kids, reading independently helps them improve literacy and enjoy books. It also helps with focus and imagination.
Meal Preparation: Fuelling Busy Days
Meal planning is important for the school year. Preparing healthy meals and snacks will keep your child’s body and mind energised throughout the day. Try to focus on fresh, healthy food instead of packaged items. You can make homemade snacks like energy bars or healthy muffins. Preparing meals in advance can save time and stress when school starts. Planning dinners for the week also helps reduce stress. It’s a big help on busy evenings when you have extracurricular activities, homework, and more to manage. For picky eaters (we all know them!), consider seeing our functional, medicinal, nutritionist Vanessa for advice on healthy meals
Study Spaces and Schedules
Setting up a study area at home helps kids focus on schoolwork. Even younger kids can benefit from a space to practise writing and drawing. It’s also helpful to create a study schedule. Even if there’s no formal homework, set aside time for activities like reading, writing, and maths games. Mixing academic tasks with fun activities will help your child stay engaged. For older kids, setting up a homework schedule now will help them manage their time as schoolwork increases.
Balancing Schoolwork and Activities
It’s important to keep track of extracurricular activities so kids know when their sports or other activities are happening. This helps them balance school tasks and downtime. A key part of balancing everything is reducing screen time. Too much screen time before school starts can make it harder to sleep. By cutting back on screens, kids can re-establish good sleep habits, which will help them focus and feel better during the school day. Less screen time also means more time for reading, outdoor play, or family activities.
