Stress Free Morning Routines for Kids
Stress Free Morning Routines
Mom, where’s my lunch money?
I can’t find my backpack!
What happened to my homework? If the dog didn’t eat it who did?
Get in the car… Get. in. the. CAR!
Did the school bus just go by?
It’s back to school here in Georgia.
Have you established a morning routine with your crew? Or are you back to dreading the early morning rush and late night homework sessions? One of the most stressful times of the day for many parents and children is the early morning rush of getting to school on time.
I know last year was unique (that’s an understatement), but it’s likely that you’ve gotten out of the schedule routine. Virtual lessons in pajamas. Parents working (or trying to…) from home. No extracurricular activities. I know the pandemic caused many of us to re-evaluate the value of many things and maybe you have simplified your life style because of it. However, most school districts are back to regular school hours and classes in the fall and that means back to somewhat of a routine. Are you ready?
Although back to school start dates may vary around the country, one thing that doesn’t vary is the manic morning rush to get everyone out of the house and off to school/ work on time. To change manic mornings to tranquil transitions, create a morning schedule that is congruent with your family’s style. Not every personality style reacts well to a timed schedule and a stop watch mentality but you can create a school morning scenario that matches your family’s unique preferences. Here’s how:
Four tips for creating a stress free morning
- Begin by discussing as a family the goals that everyone has for the morning. Be at school and work on time? Eat a healthy breakfast? Have a positive mindset? Have all the supplies you need for the day? Get everyone’s input to make sure everyone is clear on what is expected.
- Plan ahead by getting things ready the night before– I’m a big fan of this approach. When my children were little we got clothes out and backpacks ready the night before. Even now, I prepare the night before for my next day.
- Leave yourself enough margin to arrive on time— The idea of margin is a good one. Plan for the necessary amount of time with some extra time added in for unforeseen difficulties. Teach children to create a schedule by working backward from the time they need to arrive at school. Then follow through.
- Spend some quiet time in gratitude. This is a definite part of my morning and a great start for families as well. Share a devotion with the family as you eat breakfast. This is so different from the rushing-out-the-door, pop-tart-in-hand approach that often characterizes the morning routine.
- Share a positive affirmation that sets the tone for the day– Make the affirmation a question to get the biggest mental impact. One example is: “How can you make it a great day for someone?” Sharing a positive thought at the last good bye can create a positive mindset that lasts all day.
Wyatt Learns about Being Organized
It’s time to catch the school bus and Wyatt can’t find anything. Where is his backpack? his lunch money? Wyatt is about to learn a valuable lesson about the importance of being organized and the benefits of planning ahead. This adorable story offers simple helpful ideas that kids and parents can use to make life less stressful and more fun.
If you’ve ever lost your lunch money or misplaced your favorite toy, you can relate to Wyatt. this adorable story offers simple, helpful ideas that kids and parents can use to make life less stressful and more fun! ! Erin K. Casey, author of Zany Zia’s Hats to Where
