September It is the month that marks the back to routine For many families, leaving summer vacation behind and making way for new challenges and goals. However, this transition period can be difficult for adults and children alike. From adjusting schedules to adapting to new school dynamics, it is essential to face this change with planning and a positive attitude. In this guide we provide you with tips and strategies to make the “return to school” as bearable and enriching as possible for all members of the family.
The importance of gradually adapting schedules
The key to ensuring that returning to routine is not an abrupt change is in prepare the schedules in advance. After the holiday period, when schedules tend to be more relaxed, it is natural that both children and adults need some time to readjust their routines.
How to do it effectively:
- Start by gradually adjusting bedtime and wake-up times, starting at least a week before the start of the school year. This helps the body adapt to the new rhythms.
- Establish regular meal times, as this directly influences energy levels and concentration.
- Introduce more structured activities in the days leading up to the class, such as reading sessions or reviewing school materials.
In addition, to help the school age children, you can use tools such as alarms with progressive lights or soft melodies, which facilitate a more natural transition when getting up.
Gradually distribute responsibilities
When it comes to settling back into a routine after a long break, trying to take on too many tasks right from the start can be overwhelming. This applies to both adults and children.
Practical strategies:
- Maintain some relaxing holiday activities, such as family outings or outdoor games, to counteract the initial stress.
- Introduce new activities or responsibilities, such as chores or extracurricular activities, gradually once the school routine is established.
- Plan regular breaks during school days, ensuring there is enough time for leisure and relaxation.
Dividing responsibilities not only reduces stress, but also fosters a more positive environment that facilitates general adaptation for each member of the family.
Encourage communication at home
Family communication plays a vital role in adapting to new changes. Create a space to talk about emotions, expectations and challenges enriches the family bond and strengthens the emotional well-being of children.
Tips to encourage communication:
- Set aside a specific time each day to talk about how each family member's day went. This can be during dinner or before bed.
- Involve children in weekly planning, asking them what activities they would like to do or what their academic goals are.
- Build trust by asking for their input on family decisions, such as organizing the house or making meals.
Establishing a daily “family time” can be a great way to open this channel of communication. You can also use visual tools, such as planning boards, to keep everyone aligned on household commitments and activities.
Resume healthy habits
During the summer months, it is common to relax certain habits, such as maintaining a balance diet or doing physical activity regularly. However, going back to school is an ideal time to get back into these routines.
Tips for establishing healthy habits:
- Include more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your daily meals, creating varied and nutritious menus.
- Promote physical activities as a family, such as walks or outdoor games, to maintain a balance between exercise and leisure.
- Limit screen time and encourage creative activities, such as painting, reading, or solving puzzles.
Finally, consider activities that encourage mental health, such as mindfulness sessions, deep breathing exercises or small moments of daily disconnection.
Strengthen the immune system during the return to school
Returning to school also means more contact with other people, which can increase the risk of infection. Therefore, strengthen the immune system is essential.
Key recommendations:
- Promote proper hygiene, including frequent hand washing, especially before eating and after playing.
- Boost your immune system with vitamin-rich foods such as citrus fruits, nuts and green leafy vegetables.
- It includes the practice of nasal cleansing and encourages the use of disinfectant gel in the school backpack.
To prevent contagion in the school environment, please also consult our Back to school guide in times of COVID-19.
Preparing for this change of season with clear and planned strategies will not only facilitate adaptation, but will turn the Back to School an opportunity to strengthen family ties, establish positive habits and face the new school year with energy and enthusiasm.