The kids have gotten used to jumping around until midnight, meals take place on a whim, and life has become a little lawless. It's been a fun holiday, but as we gear up for a new academic chapter, re-establishing a smooth school routine becomes paramount. In this article, we'll delve into practical tips on transitioning seamlessly into the school grind, from waking up early to efficient lunch box preparation.
Gradually Reintroduce A Bedtime
Adjusting your child’s sleep schedule drastically from the first day school starts isn’t the way to go! Instead, ease them back into a weeknight sleep routine gradually. Begin calling bedtime earlier and earlier, closer to the hour they’ll need to head off to dreamland for a solid ten to twelve-hour sleep. They might be resistant at first, but incorporating some soothing bonding activities (reading a bedtime story together, sharing your favourite parts of the day) could be helpful in winding your little one down.
Plan Before You Shop For Lunchboxes
An informed shopper is a savvy shopper...so prepare before you shop! Assess your child’s lunchbox needs, then compile a short and simple list of healthy eats they enjoy for lunch. Fruit, nuts, rice cakes, and yoghurt are great options. Find time each weekend to shop for these foods, to ensure your child enjoys a wholesome lunch at school each day.
This is also a much more budget-friendly approach, because you're less likely to buy more than you need or go on impromptu shopping trips that end with a ton of extra items you hadn't accounted for.
Don’t Neglect Mealtimes At Home
Younger children in particular need to adapt to new meal routines before the school day demands it of them. Set times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at home to accustom your child to the rituals of a healthy eating plan. Eating well at each meal teaches good habits, while keeping both energy and productivity levels optimal.
Plan The School Year On A Calendar
Each school year floats on a sea of schedules…school functions, lunch menus, music lessons, and sports. What do you do when you’re drowning in paperwork? Jot everything down on a calendar, of course! Using a calendar to plan school-year activities will help ease your stress levels, as well as help you manage family time. Post the calendar in a shared and easily-visible space, like on the fridge.
Prep For Manic Mornings The Evening Before
How are school mornings in your home? Calm and cheerful, or crazed and chaotic? For most, it’s the latter! Plan ahead to send your child (and yourself!) out the door in a happy frame of mind. Each evening, think ahead to the following morning. Set the breakfast table, make sure breakfast foods are within reach, lay out your child’s school uniform, and make sure school bags are packed.
Happy new school year!
