on time without any shouting or meltdowns—especially after the long, lazy days of summer. Try these parent-tested tricks to start a morning routine for school that gets everyone’s day off to a smooth and hopefully relaxed start.At my house, it can often feel like half the morning routine happens before my head hits the pillow the night before. Caitlin Schoo, a teacher and mom of three kids, ages eight, six and 19 months, from Milton, Ont., uses the same strategy.
Tools such as charts with visual cues for younger kids and routine checklists for more independent kids can help keep them on track and encourage initiative. We have large, easy-to-read clocks in the kitchen and bathroom, where the kids spend most of the morning—they all know the absolute latest minute they need to be ready at the door.Transitions tend to come with big feelings, and this year’s return to school is sure to bring some uncertainty, even for the kids who are eager to return.
Sharma reminds parents to check in with themselves. “We don’t need to pretend it’s going to be a breeze, but working on our own mindset makes a difference.” Schoo has found her family’s well-planned mornings leave them more time to connect with each other. “We have extra time for snuggles and any conversations they want to have, which is something we are really going to need this year.”Subscribe to Today's Parent's daily newsletter for our best parenting news, tips, essays and recipes.