Dad’s Top Tip for Back-to-School Prep: Establishing a Routine

As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s a time filled with excitement and, let’s be honest, a few challenges. Whether your child is about to start kindergarten or is gearing up for high school, the transition can be smoother with a bit of preparation. From a dad’s perspective, here’s my number one piece of advice for getting your kids ready for the new school year: establish a routine.

Why a Routine Matters

Summer is a time for relaxation and flexibility, which often means bedtimes shift and daily routines go out the window. While this is great for a laid-back summer, it can make the transition back to school a bit bumpy. Getting back into a routine helps ease this transition and sets your child up for success in the new school year.

Gradually Adjust Bedtimes

One of the most effective ways to prepare your child for school is to start adjusting their sleep schedule before school starts. A sudden change can be jarring, so:

Shift Bedtimes Gradually: Begin by moving bedtime and wake-up times earlier in small increments—about 15 minutes every few days. This gradual adjustment helps your child’s body clock get back into sync with the school schedule without causing too much disruption.

Create a Morning Routine

A consistent morning routine can make school days less chaotic and more manageable. Here’s how to establish one:

Practice the Routine: Start practicing getting up, getting dressed, and having breakfast at the same time each morning. It helps your child get used to the rhythm of school mornings and can make those early wake-ups a lot less stressful when the school year begins.

By focusing on these two key aspects—adjusting bedtimes and establishing a morning routine—you set the stage for a smoother and more successful transition back to school. It’s a small effort that pays off in big ways, helping your child feel more prepared and confident as they head into the new school year. So, from one dad to another, make the most of these last days of summer to set up a routine that will make the return to school much easier.