INDIANA – Returning to school after a break can be challenging for many students, especially after longer vacations such as winter or summer break. Typically, the longer a student is away from school, the more challenging it is to return to their routine. However, there are many tips and resources available to help parents and guardians ensure smooth transitions when returning to school and promote a more positive morning routine.
Establishing a strong and consistent morning routine is important. When you set a consistent schedule for a child, you foster their independence and help them feel prepared for the day. Creating a visual schedule, such as a calendar, can be helpful. Repeating the routine over time allows the child to understand what each morning entails and establish habits.
Waking up early helps a child prepare for the day ahead. If they wake up late, a child may feel overwhelmed and rushed to arrive at school on time. Eating breakfast before school may not be an option, and homework or an important school supply may be left behind. Ensuring a calm and controlled morning can help promote a more positive school day.
Creating a unique goodbye can make the transition more comforting and be a special moment between a student and their parent or guardian. Whether it’s a kiss, a hug, a high-five, a secret handshake, or more than one of these, a special goodbye can add some fun and extra love before beginning the school day.
Having a conversation about the school day ahead can also help make children feel more prepared. This time allows your child to share any concerns or worries they may have. Talking about what the school day will look like helps your child know what to expect and feel more prepared.
Rewards and incentives can also help motivate students. Using a sticker chart allows students to earn a small reward for completing their morning routine and walking to school.
Allowing your student to bring a comfort item to school can offer a sense of security. It is a good idea to check with your child’s teacher before bringing an item, but most teachers allow students to keep a family photo in their locker or folder. During the car ride to school, the student may have a special stuffed animal or blanket to hold. This can also be included in the daily morning routine.
Lastly, offering encouragement and affirmations can go a long way in supporting a child. Encouraging your child to do their best every morning before school and providing positive affirmations will help them more than you know. This can help build confidence and increase their self-esteem. Leaving notes in their lunchbox or backpack can serve as small touches that motivate them throughout the school day.
Lisa Glahn, MSW, LCSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Holy Cross Catholic School, St. James Catholic School, and Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic School in Gibson County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.
