Kiddipedia
By Jacqui Hunt, Head of Department, Occupational Therapy at Perth Children’s Hospital
As a parent, one of the most challenging times of the year is getting your child back into the school routine after the summer break. However, an often overlooked hurdle is what comes next – mid-term breaks.
As schools all over the country gear up for their first term holidays, many parents will inevitably find that just two or three weeks is more than enough time for a child to forget any semblance of the routine they once had. The good news? You can help your child seamlessly transition back to school with the right approach.
Prepare your child for the change
Transitioning from the relaxed pace of holidays to the structured routine of school days can be a challenge for both children and parents alike. One of the keys to smoothing out this transition is emotional preparation.
It’s important to have open conversations with your child about the upcoming change to their routine. Talk to them about what their days will look like moving forward, what they will need to do each morning and night, and what they can look forward to at school. These conversations are central to helping your child emotionally prepare for the shift back into the classroom routine after a holiday.
Create a safe environment for them to come home to
After a long day at school, kids often need a safe space to decompress and unwind. As parents, it’s up to us to create this nurturing environment at home. Whether it’s engaging in playful activities, taking a leisurely walk, or simply sitting down for a heart-to-heart chat, providing this safe haven allows children to process their emotions and share their school experiences with us. By fostering open communication and offering unwavering support, we help our children navigate the ups and downs of school life with confidence.
Be an advocate for your child
Every child is unique, and it’s essential to advocate for their individual needs in the school setting. As their parent, you know better than anyone what your child may be struggling with, whether it be academically, socially, or emotionally. With this in mind, it’s important that you take the time to communicate with your child’s teachers about any specific requirements or accommodations they may need.
Whether addressing sensory sensitivities or ensuring access to necessary support services, advocating for your child empowers them to thrive in the classroom. By building a collaborative relationship with teachers, you can ensure that your child is enjoying an inclusive and supportive learning environment where they can thrive.
Create a routine they understand
As difficult as it can be to get a child organised and out the door for school on time in the morning, it’s important to understand that they are trying their best with the tools they have. Establishing a structured routine is key to getting back into the swing of school life, so it’s crucial that we find ways they can understand and process the routine that is best for them.
Start by prioritising a consistent sleep schedule to ensure your child is well-rested and ready to face the day ahead. To minimise any issues regarding bedtime, make sure you have a clear conversation with your child about why a sleep routine is important and ensure they aren’t doing any stimulating activities close to bedtime, such as watching TV or playing games. Visual aids such as timers and checklists can also help your child stay organised and on track with their routine. By providing clear expectations and a predictable routine they can count on, we help our children feel more secure and prepared as they head back to school.
At the end of the day, getting your child back into a routine doesn’t have to be a struggle. When we work with our kids to help them adjust to the back-to-school period, we give them the tools they need to thrive – in and out of the classroom.
