How to Ease Your primary school age child into the New School Year (Without Losing Your Mind)
The two-week countdown to school is ON.
And if your little one has been living that unstructured, snack-all-day, bedtime-who-is-she summer life… this post is for you.
Whether you're prepping a 5-year-old for their first classroom or helping your 10-year-old shift from holiday brain back into learning mode, here are some simple, supportive ways to ease that transition with way less chaos.
1. Start the Routine..........Now
Ease them in with a consistent wake-up and bedtime, even if it’s just 15–30 minutes earlier every few days.
➡️ Kids thrive on predictability, and school mornings aren’t the time to test flexibility. this helps them not to have a big shock right before school starts where they suddenly don’t have a say on their bedtime! Trust me this will help with tantrums and reduce prolonged night time routine where they are begging you to get up.
Tip: Use a visual schedule or a sticker chart for the last 10 days of summer to build excitement and structure.
2. Prep for Earlier Wake-Ups (Without the 5am Creeping)
Some kids swing *too* hard the other way and start waking at the crack of dawn.
➡️ Help reset their body clock with blackout curtains, reduce screens 1 hour before bed, and a consistent “quiet time” routine. This could include a night-time basket with activity books, games you can do together or independently
Strategy: Try a "sunrise clock" that lights up when it’s okay to get out of bed—game changer.
3. Talk About Their Feelings (Not Just Logistics)
Back-to-school anxiety is REAL.
Even if they’re not saying “I’m nervous,” their behavior (clinginess, bedtime struggles, moodiness) might be doing the talking.
What helps:
-Practice drives to school
- Visit the playground or meet the teacher early if possible
-Roleplay social situations (“What will you say if someone asks to play?”)
4. Create a Calm-Down Bedtime Ritual
Swap high-energy activities for a routine that helps regulate their nervous system before bed. A bedtime basket as I suggested above can also be a great addition to start before school
Ideas:
-Warm bath
- Story time (even older kids love being read to!)
- Guided breathing or kids’ sleep meditation
-Ask them: “What’s something you’re looking forward to tomorrow?”
5. Get Them Involved
Kids are more likely to embrace change when they feel *in* on the plan.
Let them:
-Pick out school supplies or outfits
- Help pack their lunch
-Choose a special breakfast for the first day
Final Thought:
This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about creating enough rhythm that your child feels supported AND you feel less like you're herding wild squirrels at 7:15am.
Do you need a chat?
Still feeling overwhelmed then why don’t you book a tailored made 2 week plan to help your little one’s sleep school ready!
