Somehow, just as quickly as it started, summer is coming to an end. Suddenly, you’re trading in swim trunks and snorkels for school clothes and supplies. And while you may be welcoming some kid-free time back into the weekdays, you’re also ushering in the bustle of morning routines, sports practices, tutoring, and therapies.

Is it possible to transition from one reality to the other with minimal meltdowns? It sure is – with a little proactive planning! Here are some tips for a successful back-to-school transition.

Train Early Wakeup Times

Don’t wait till the first day of school to attempt an early wake-up! During these last days leading up to school, start introducing the presence of an alarm clock. First, set the alarm around the time your child usually wakes up (yes, even if it’s 11 AM!). Each consecutive day, set the alarm back a little bit further (e.g. 1 hour earlier each day) until BAM – you’re at school wake-up time! Bedtimes should be progressively earlier each day too.

Be sure and let your child in on the plan, and remind them frequently of their upcoming bedtime/wake time. The fewer surprises, the easier it will be for your child to adjust.

Visuals, Visuals, Visuals!

New school year, new routines? Make ‘em official with a visual! No need to get fancy; simply type up the steps of each routine and use Google images for accompanying pictures. Hang your visuals within clear view of the places your child will need them (e.g. “getting ready” visual next to their closet door, “hygiene visual” in the bathroom, “backpack unpacking” visual in the mudroom). During the first week of school, assist your child with performing these routines. If something gets missed, refer them back to the schedule until it’s done!

Rehearse Routines

Don’t let the first day of school be a barrage of new routines! Hang visuals ahead of time and do dry runs. Whenever possible, embed rewards to make it a fun game (e.g. first one ready gets to pick the breakfast cereal; if bedtime routine is done by 7:50, you get to read an extra book)! The more well-practiced the routine, the more confident everyone becomes.

Need some professional advice to ease the back-to-school transition? Let Cielo be your thought partner! Reach out today to chat about how behavior consultation can fit your needs.