Structure and routine are known pillars of student success. It may sound boring to consider routine during what should be a time dedicated to fun, but children thrive with an organized flow to their day! This is why maintaining a routine during summer break is important. Read on to learn about why routines matter and how to create one that nurtures your child and leaves room for fun. 

Establishing a Sense of Stability

When the school year ends, many things change—sleep schedules, mealtimes and daily activities. These changes can be exciting at first, but they can also create a sense of instability, especially in younger children. By adding structure to their day, parents and caregivers can help children understand the flow of time. 

Start by setting consistent wake-up and bedtime hours, even if they’re slightly later than they are during the school year. Plan mealtimes and activities around those times, as it’s important for children to get the minimum recommended amount of sleep. Check with your pediatrician if you’re unsure of how much sleep your child needs each night. 

Building Healthy Habits

A consistent routine helps children build healthy habits, like making their beds every morning, tidying up after meals or keeping their rooms clean. These habits include both personal hygiene and household chores. Maintaining these habits will also make the transition back to school much smoother. 

Set aside a specific time each day for chores, such as helping around the house or cleaning their own space. It doesn’t need to be long, but it should be consistent. A simple responsibility helps them stay motivated and visualize their accomplishments. 

Balancing Activities 

A structured routine helps children healthily engage in various activities, like screen time, reading, play, and quiet time. A good balance of those activities supports your child’s mental and physical well-being.

Involve your child in planning the day or week ahead. Let them help you choose activities and outings, such as visits to a playground, a museum or a library. Set clear expectations for screen time—when and for how long—and make space in the day for reading or light academic work. Once you have your schedule, try to stick to it, but remember to stay flexible, too. It is summer, after all! 

Keeping Learning at the Forefront

Summer offers a great opportunity for learning outside the classroom. Although it may not be as academically rigorous as the learning done in school, the benefits add up. Plan educational activities and invite friends to join. Start a book club for your child and their friends with short discussions and playdates, for example. You can also incorporate STEM fun and multisensory learning into your schedule. Keeping it fun and interactive will ensure development continues throughout the summer.

A thoughtful summer routine helps children enjoy a healthy balance of play, learning, and downtime while setting the stage for a smoother return to school. At Lake Forrest Prep, we believe that students can thrive in the right environment. We’re proud to serve families seeking an Orlando private school for their children. Give us a call at (407) 331-5144 or contact us online to schedule a tour!