Welcome Routines: Tips for Getting Back Into the School Year Groove

The long months of summer provide a much needed break from busy school days. But, they can also throw our routines off track and, come September, leave us struggling to get back in the school year groove.

Here are a few tips to help you kick off the school year right.

Get in the Bedtime Groove Before School Begins

Two weeks before school is set to begin start slowly transitioning children into the school year bedtime routine.

Make a simple list of bedtime duties and place it in a visible area for everyone to see.

Each child has different needs. Let everyone be an active part in making and sticking to the bedtime routine.

Help each child understand why getting enough sleep is important, and help them to create an environment that makes them feel the most comfortable.

If you have different rules depending on the day of the week, be open and honest about what will be expected regarding school nights, weekend nights, and holidays.

Give your children at least one hour of quiet time for reading, gentle play, or snuggling before bed to help them feel like the day has come to a close.

Encourage consistency, but be flexible as needed.

Simplify the Homework Routine

Making homework a family priority.

Establish guidelines for your child's homework and incorporate homework time into the family's daily schedule.

Provide a clean, well-lit, distraction-free space for studying.

Keep telephone numbers of teachers and other students handy.

Discuss with your child how you can be of assistance with homework without being intrusive or controlling.

Be aware of school policy regarding how much teachers expect parents to help with homework.

Be sure that you and your child share a common set of expectations regarding your role in the homework process.

Give kids breaks for play and relaxation during studying to help them stay focused and refreshed.

Work Free Time and Family Time Into Your Daily Schedule

All children need time to play and be free every day. Designate part of the day/evening as free time the child can count on.

Let each child choose how they are going to spend that free time, while encouraging activities you know will help them relax and unwind.

Choose regular times each day to spend together as a family, such as evening meals or reading before bed.

Even 15 minutes of family time can make a big difference in helping kids reconnect after a school day.