8 tips for getting children back into a school routine

As the summer holidays draw to a close, getting back into the all-important school routine can be challenging for both parents and children.

Whether it's after a long summer holiday or returning from any extended time off, getting back into the swing of things for the first day of school requires planning and consistency.

But getting kids back into a good routine doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are eight essential tips to help your family establish a smooth back-to-school routine that sets everyone up for success.

1. Start early

Don't wait until the night before school starts to implement new routines. Ease your child back into their routine by adjusting sleep schedules and daily activities at least a week in advance. This gradual approach can make the transition feel less abrupt and more manageable for everyone involved.

2. Establish a consistent bedtime routine

A good night’s sleep can make all the difference when it comes to learning and overall wellbeing.

Create a back-to-school bedtime routine that includes:

• Setting a consistent bedtime appropriate for your child's age

• Creating a calm environment by dimming lights and reducing noise

• Encouraging relaxing activities like reading a book or listening to soft music

• Limiting screen time before bed.

Chelsey Borson, a paediatric sleep consultant and founder of sleep coaching service Luna Leaps, emphasises the importance of consistency:

"Research shows that consistent bedtime routines play a critical role in promoting better sleep for children. Children with regular bedtime routines experience improved sleep quality and fewer sleep problems compared to those without consistent routines."

For specific ages, Chelsey suggests:

• 5-6 years old: 7-8:30 pm

• 7-8 years old: 7:30-9 pm

• 9-10 years old: 8-9:30 pm

• 11-12 years old: 8:30-10 pm

• 13-14 years old: 9-10:30 pm

• 15-16 years old: 9:30-11 pm.

This information is guidance only. Chelsey explains, “Individual sleep needs may vary, and it's important to consider factors like the child's individual sleep patterns and their overall well-being when determining their specific bedtime.”

3. Create a morning routine for kids

A well-structured morning routine can set a positive tone for the entire school day. Here's a sample back-to-school first-day morning routine:

1. Wake up at a consistent time

2. Make the bed

3. Have a nutritious breakfast

4. Get dressed (with clothes laid out the night before)

5. Brush teeth and complete other hygiene tasks

6. Double-check school bag and gather any necessary items

7. Leave for school at the same time each day.

4. Prepare the night before

Children and parents can reduce morning stress by preparing as much as possible the night before:

• Lay out clothes for the next day

• Pack school bags

• Prepare lunch or set out lunch money

• Place important items like shoes, coats, PE kits, and musical instruments by the door.

To ease the stress, our handy back-to-school checklist can help you avoid those last-minute scrambles for missing items!

5. Use visual aids

Create charts or checklists for morning and evening routines. This can help younger children stay on track and give older kids a sense of accomplishment as they complete tasks. Consistently using these aids can help reinforce the routine.

6. Gradually adjust screen time

If the summer holidays meant more relaxed rules around screen time, start adjusting limits well before school starts. Set specific times for screen use and stick to them. This can help ease the transition and reduce conflicts once children are back at school.

7. Practice healthy evening habits

Sleep is the foundation for successful learning. It's not just about physical rest; it's about having time to recharge mentally, too. When children get a good night's sleep, their brains are gearing up for optimal cognitive function and emotional regulation during the school day.

To promote healthy sleep:

• Stick to age-appropriate bedtimes

• Create a relaxing bedtime routine

• Ensure the sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to rest

• Be mindful of diet, avoiding sugary or caffeinated drinks and heavy or spicy foods close to bedtime.

8. Be flexible and patient

Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be prepared to adjust your back-to-school routines as needed, and involve your child in the process. This can help them feel more in control and more likely to cooperate with the established routines.

Remember, getting back into a school routine is a process that may take time. Be patient with yourself and your children as you all adjust to the new schedule.

Back to school routines: A team effort

Establishing effective back-to-school routines is a team effort between parents and children. By working together to create consistent, positive habits around bedtime, mornings, and daily activities, you can help ensure a smooth transition back to school and set the stage for a successful academic year.

At Explore Learning, we're here to support your child's educational journey every step of the way. Whether it's help with homework, extra practice in maths and English, or building confidence in learning, our tutors are ready to help your child thrive in the new school year and beyond.

Explore our online tutoring options or find a tuition centre near you to give your child the boost they need for a brilliant school year ahead.