Back-to-School Routines: Simple Ways to Start the Day Right

The back-to-school season is an exciting time, but let’s be honest, getting back into a routine after summer can be tough. Long days at the beach, camps, and late bedtimes don’t exactly prepare us for early alarms and packed mornings. But with a little planning, you can help your family make a smooth transition into the school year.

At National Heritage Academies (NHA^®), we believe strong routines help students succeed. Doug Hower, Director of School Quality, shares this advice: “Students respond best when they have structure, routine, and consistency. Parents play a critical part in establishing a morning routine that sets everyone, kids and parents, up for a smooth start.”

Here are some easy tips to get your family back on track:

Create a Successful Before-Bed Routine

1. Schedule your evening
Sports and practices can make this hard but do your best to have a set dinner time, time to unwind, and room for homework and showers. A calm, consistent routine helps everyone know what to expect.

2. Reduce morning stress
Lay out clothes, pack lunches, and prep breakfast the night before. The less you have to think about in the morning, the smoother it goes.

3. Create a grab-and-go station
Keep backpacks, lunches, and any devices by the door so you’re not scrambling to find them during the morning rush.

4. Set a bedtime for everyone
A good night’s sleep helps both kids and adults feel ready for the day.

Build a Fresh Morning Routine

1. Be a good role model
Get up 15 minutes before your kids so you can start your day with calm not chaos.

2. Set timers
Use timers for tasks like brushing teeth, eating breakfast, or getting dressed. This helps kids manage their time and stay on track.

3. Move your whole schedule up
If you need to leave at 7:45 a.m., aim for 7:30 instead. This gives you a buffer for traffic or last-minute delays.

Extra Tips to Make Mornings Even Easier

• Keep breakfast simple. Smoothies, toast, fruit, or granola bars are perfect for mornings on the go.
• Give kids responsibility. Let them help with chores like feeding the dog or making their own lunch.
• Make a checklist. Use a chart or magnets so kids can follow their own steps to get ready.
• Use rewards. If they finish their tasks early, let them read a book or play a quick game before heading out.

Doug Hower also shares one final idea to keep in mind: “Use the last moments in the car before drop-off to say something positive. Use words of encouragement like ‘You’ve got this’ or ‘Have a great day’. That encouragement can really help your child start school with confidence.”

A little planning goes a long way in helping your child succeed both in school and in life.