As summer winds down, I realized my kids will be heading back to school at the end of August, and frankly, I’m not ready for it. It’s been a long time since they’ve been in a classroom full-time—since March 2020, to be exact. If I’m struggling to adjust, I can only imagine how they feel about it. We’re all going to need some help navigating this transition.
Each year, I tell myself I’ll start preparing earlier, but summer’s easy-going vibe usually distracts me. I end up regretting the lack of a plan come fall, filled with frustration as I try to get my kids back into a routine. It doesn’t help when I resort to creative cursing, hoping it’ll magically motivate them—spoiler alert, it doesn’t work.
If you’re in the same boat, wondering how to ease your kids back into school mode, I’ve gathered some useful tips. My kids have enjoyed staying up late and sleeping in, which can turn them into late risers. To combat this, Dr. Lisa Harper, a pediatrician, recommends adjusting their sleep schedule gradually. “Aim for a week-long buffer before school starts, shifting bedtimes and wake-up times by 15 to 30 minutes every other day,” she suggests.
Most children need about 9-11 hours of sleep, so calculate when they need to wake up to minimize morning chaos and work backward to find their ideal bedtime. Dr. Mark Johnson, a sleep specialist, advises keeping a consistent bedtime routine and removing devices an hour before sleep to ensure better rest. I enforced this rule with my kids when they were younger; it paid off in helping them sleep better.
Encouraging outdoor play and ensuring their sleeping environment is comfortable also contribute to quality rest. If your child is feeling anxious about returning to school, consider reaching out to their teachers before the school year kicks off. Schools are often open to addressing parental concerns and can provide useful support.
Both my son and daughter will be starting at new schools—my son in high school for the first time, and my daughter at a newly built school. They’re understandably nervous about adjusting to new surroundings. A pre-school visit can help them get familiar with their new environment, easing some of that anxiety.
Getting kids to eat breakfast can also be challenging, but studies show that a nutritious start makes a difference in their day. Try to establish this habit a few weeks before school begins so it feels normal by the first day. Smoothies or breakfast bars are usually a hit with my kids. If they struggle to eat in the morning, ensure they know what breakfast options their school offers.
While preparing for the school year can feel overwhelming, investing time in this transition will pay off when life gets busy. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way what happens when I let summer slip by without a plan.
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Summary
As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s crucial to help your kids transition smoothly after a long break from in-person classes. Start adjusting their sleep schedule early, ensure they have a nutritious breakfast routine, and consider reaching out to their teachers for support. Preparing in advance can alleviate stress and help everyone ease back into the school routine.
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