Young children need routines, and having familiar home routines can be comforting, especially during times of change – such as starting kindergarten. By having predictable routines for the mornings, afternoons, and evenings, children can feel safer and happier, which often leads to positive experiences at school. Daily routines can also help children make a smooth adjustment to new settings. When kids (and adults) know what to expect each day, to feel more comfortable and confident, and ready to face the school day with success! 

Morning 

• Try to give yourself a little cushion of time in the morning, even if it’s just by making sure you and your child wake up five or ten minutes earlier than needed.

• Many kids need help with transitions, and mornings before school can often feel busy with multiple transitions. To get everyone out the door on time, leave extra time, be clear about expectations and talk to your child in advance about the morning routine, such as getting dressed, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, and putting on shoes.

• Talk to your child about their fun day ahead or ask about how they slept. This can help your child feel more connected to you, and by getting them into a positive mindset, they may be more motivated during the morning routine. 

• Finish each morning by saying goodbye, whether it’s by a big bear hug or a simple wave through the window. Remind them about who will be there when the day is done. 

After School 

• Teach your child how to hang up their backpacks and jackets and put away their shoes when they come home.

• Most kids come home hungry after a busy day offer them water and a healthy snack that will fill them up until dinner, such as whole grains, fruits, and/or vegetables.

• Keep in mind that at the end of a full day at school, your child will most likely be ready for some free time and relaxation. Allow them to rest and recharge before starting the evening schedule (for example, before homework, dinner, and their bedtime routine). 

Nighttime 

• The night before school, set out clothes, make lunches, and organize your child’s backpack for the next day. This can help to save time in the morning.

• Set a predictable pre-bedtime routine to allow children time to get sleepy on their own. For example, if your child knows that they’re going to take a bath, brush their teeth, and hear a bedtime story before light’s out, it serves as a sort of warning before the abruptness of sleep.



• One of the best ways to guarantee a good day at school is by ensuring your child has a good night’s sleep. A bedtime routine should involve screen-free time to help them wind down, and a cool and comfortable bedroom that is dark, with minimal distractions. 

By following a routine at home, your child will learn that they will be following routines throughout the school day as well. Educational environments usually follow a typical daily schedule (such as circle time, lunch, recess, centers, etc.), which can provide structure and comfort to young children. By being proactive and setting a familiar routine at home, this can set your child up for success and help their school day go more smoothly. Additionally, aside from ensuring school success, family routines help to keep life organized, and children do best when routines are regular, predictable, and consistent. For more back to school resources, visit our Transition to Kindergarten page at https://www.elcpalmbeach.org/transition-to-kindergarten.