When the first rays of the sun peek through your window, and the morning alarm bell tolls, it signals the start of another day — a day filled with possibilities and challenges. And if you’re a parent, you know that one of the most significant challenges is getting your kids ready for school. From coaxing them out of bed to ensuring they’re well-fed and properly dressed, the morning routine can often feel like a marathon. But what if I told you there’s a way to make getting ready for school less of a chore and more of a smooth, enjoyable process? In this blog post, we’ll explore practical strategies, backed by research and expert advice, to streamline your morning routine. We’ll cover everything from setting effective routines to dealing with morning meltdowns, especially for those parents who have neurodivergent kids. So, let’s get ready to transform your mornings from chaotic to calm, and ensure your child steps out the door ready to embrace the day ahead.
Table of Contents
Breakfast
Let’s kick off with breakfast. It’s often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s the fuel your kids need to kickstart their day. A good breakfast can help their brain produce neurotransmitters, which are essential for memory, concentration, and mood. So, whether it’s a bowl of whole-grain cereal, a smoothie, or scrambled eggs, make sure your kids start their day with a nutritious meal.
However, I understand that mornings can be hectic, and sometimes there’s barely enough time to grab a piece of toast. That’s where planning comes in. Prepare breakfast items the night before — overnight oats, for instance, are a great option. You can also have a selection of fruits and nuts handy for a quick, nutritious snack on the go.
Morning Hygiene
Next up is brushing teeth. It’s not just about maintaining oral hygiene, but also about setting a routine. It’s important to brush teeth before leaving for school — not only does it freshen breath, but it also contributes to overall health.
Make this activity fun for your kids. Use a timer or play their favorite song while they brush. This can turn a mundane task into an enjoyable experience, especially for neurodivergent kids who might find regular routines challenging.
Sleep
Quality sleep is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial aspect of getting ready for school. Studies have shown that quality sleep can help students perform better in school. It aids in memory consolidation, creative thinking, and problem-solving — all essential skills for a successful school day.
Ensure your kids have a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. Create a calming bedtime routine — this could include reading a book, listening to soft music, or taking a warm bath. Remember, a well-rested child is a happy, productive student.
Preparation
Now, let’s talk about the night before. Preparing school clothes and packing backpacks can save you a lot of morning stress. Have your kids gather any textbooks, pencils, pens, and homework assignments they need and put them into their backpack the night before. This not only saves time in the morning but also teaches them responsibility and planning.
Similarly, have them prepare their school clothes. This can be a fun activity where they get to choose their outfits. It’s one less thing for you to worry about in the morning, and it gives them a sense of independence.
Read more: Autism and School
Lunch
If your kids take their lunch to school, pack it the night before. This reduces morning chaos and ensures they have a healthy, home-cooked meal. Involve your kids in the process — let them choose what they want (within healthy limits, of course). This can be a great way to teach them about nutrition and meal planning.
Homework
Finally, make sure your kids complete their homework before bed. This not only ensures they’re prepared for the next school day but also frees up their morning for a calm, relaxed start. Create a quiet, distraction-free space for them to work, and be available to help if needed. But remember, it’s their homework, not yours — your role is to guide and support, not do it for them.
Getting ready for school doesn’t have to be a battle. With a little planning, consistency, and a lot of patience, you can create a morning routine that works for you and your kids. And remember, every child is different — what works for one might not work for another. So, be flexible, be understanding, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. You’re doing a great job!
Goally | Routines that Actually Work
Goally’s skill building tablet for kids has routines that break down large tasks into small, achievable steps. It helps kids complete their tasks independently!
Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step. The steps come in small, bite-sized pieces to help your child learn the little fundamentals (like putting the toothpaste on their toothbrush!) to achieve bigger goals. And that’s just the beginning. See it in action:
In the hustle and bustle of getting ready for school, remember that every small step counts. A nutritious breakfast fuels their day, a consistent sleep schedule enhances their learning, and a well-packed backpack saves those frantic last-minute searches. By preparing the night before, you can transform chaotic mornings into calm ones. And let’s not forget the power of routines, especially for our neurodivergent kids. With patience, planning, and a dash of creativity, you can turn the daily school preparation into a smooth, enjoyable process. After all, it’s these everyday moments that shape our kids’ school experiences and memories.
FAQ’s About Getting Ready for School
Why is breakfast important in getting ready for school? Breakfast provides the necessary fuel for the brain, aiding in memory, concentration, and mood, which are essential for a productive school day. How can sleep impact a child's school performance? Quality sleep aids in memory consolidation, creative thinking, and problem-solving, all of which are crucial for academic success. How can preparing the night before help in getting ready for school? Preparing school clothes and packing backpacks the night before can save time in the morning and reduce stress. What is the role of a consistent routine in getting ready for school? Consistent routines can provide structure, especially for neurodivergent kids, making the process of getting ready for school smoother and less stressful. How can parents involve their kids in the process of getting ready for school? Parents can involve their kids in preparing their school clothes, packing their backpacks, and planning their lunches, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.
This post was originally published on 02/08/2022. It was updated on 02/09/2024.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
