Winter break has a way of disrupting routines. As the longest break in the school year, it’s completely normal for it to feel challenging to get on track, even if school is already back in session. If you feel like you still need time to get back into the swing of things, you’re not alone. Luckily, you can slowly but surely get resettled into your family’s routine with a couple of intentional adjustments. Read on to learn why routines are important and a few tips for helping your family get back on track.
Why Routine Matters for Children
Predictable routines are grounding for children, as they help them feel confident and secure. When children know what to expect from their day, they’re better able to focus, regulate their emotions and smoothly transition between activities. Structure provides a sense of stability, especially after an extended period away from the classroom. When routines are scattered, children feel the effects in their ability to concentrate. Consistent routines reduce anxiety and help students build confidence as they settle back into learning.
Resetting Sleep and Morning Schedules
Consistent sleep and morning routines impact your child’s mood and attention, and since they set the tone for the day, they should definitely be priorities. Nighttime and morning routines, however, are among the most difficult to reset after winter break. With a couple of weeks of later bedtimes and wake-up times, getting back into the normal schedule can be a shock to your child’s system. At first, they may have trouble falling asleep and waking up on time. If your child is still struggling with going to bed and waking up earlier, try gradual changes instead of sudden shifts. This allows your child’s body to naturally adjust.
Reestablishing Homework and After-School Routines
Like your nighttime and morning routines, after-school routines should be consistent. It’s important to balance extracurricular activities with homework time, ensuring your child has ample time to shift from one mode to the other. When it comes to homework time, having a dedicated study space can make the transition easier. After-school routines also include free time. Make sure your child has plenty of downtime for fun activities and quality time with friends. This provides them with the relaxation and recharge they need after a long day of school and other responsibilities.
Keeping Everything Simple and Sustainable
When rebuilding routines, focus on progress instead of perfection. Trying to get everything on track all at once can feel overwhelming for both yourself and your family. Start with a few key habits and simple changes to the routine, and then make more adjustments as these become comfortable. Incremental changes over time make reestablishing your routine more sustainable and help your family stick to it better. Stay flexible and consistent, and you’ll be on your way to your pre-winter break routine in no time!
Lake Forrest Prep is a K-8 preparatory school that’s dedicated to teaching the whole child, helping them grow into responsible, moral citizens who contribute positively to their communities. We believe that parent-school partnerships are of utmost importance in ensuring our students feel nurtured and supported. Learn more about our school here or contact us online to schedule a tour.