That’s right: the summer break is already over! Whether it’s after a vacation, break or holiday, it’s never easy to get back to steady routine and many are reluctant to do so. Read the following tips to learn how to get make this transition easier on your family.
- Take a few moments with your children to go over their morning routine and, ideally, keep to this schedule at least a week before the first day of school. This means getting back to a fix bedtime routine according to your family schedule.
- Be Positive! If you want your kids to look forward to the new school year, you have to build up your own enthusiasm and project this feeling. Remember that you are your children’s role model so it’s important to set a good example!
- Give everyone the time they need to adjust; some may feel more tired in the beginning. Give yourself a few days to a few weeks to get back to your normal pace. Make it easier on yourself and have everything ready the night before: lunches, breakfast, school clothes and backpacks. This way you will save valuable time in the morning. You could also gradually pick up your normal pace by waking up 15 to 20 minutes earlier.
- Keep in mind that the back-to-school season can be a potential source of anxiety for some children. Take the time to listen and observe your children. Don’t shy away from openly addressing the subject. In doing so, you are encouraging your children to express their concerns and cope with these. Any change of routine involves a potential risk of regression for young children with newly developed skills, such as potty training. Don’t worry, it’s quite normal. Everything will fall into place in due time.
Finally, I recommend that you enjoy a last family dinner before school starts and make it an opportunity to look back on your summer vacation. Take the time and highlight the quality time spent as a family and create lasting memories!
Enjoy the new school year!
Hélène Fagnan, Family Coach
Founder of Nanny secours (French only)
