5 Tips for Back-to-School with Registered Social Worker, Lilli Marmurek
As the school year kicks off, creating a routine can help ease your child back into the swing of things, making those early mornings and homework sessions a little less chaotic. A steady routine doesn’t just make life easier; it helps your child (and you) feel secure, organized, and ready to take on each day. So, what can you do?
1. Keep Bedtimes Consistent:
Start by setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time. Kids need plenty of rest to be focused and full of energy for school. Try to get them into the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. It’s all about consistency!
2. Make Mornings a Breeze:
A smooth morning routine can set the tone for a great day. Involve your child in planning their morning steps—getting dressed, brushing teeth, having breakfast, along with some free play. A simple checklist can be a fun way for younger kids to keep track of what they need to do, turning the morning rush into a more manageable and enjoyable time for the entire household.
3. Create a Homework Nook:
Set up a special spot where your child can do homework or study. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a quiet, well-lit place with all the supplies they need. Having a set time for homework each day helps too, making it just another part of the daily routine.
4. Don’t Forget Downtime:
All work and no play is well, no fun! Make sure your child has time for the activities they love, whether it’s sports, reading, or just chilling out on the couch. Balancing school with downtime helps them recharge, keeps them happy, and helps prevent feelings of burnout.
5. Check-In and Tweak:
Regularly check in with your child to see how the routine is working for them. Be open to making changes if something isn’t quite clicking. Every child is different, so find what works best for yours.
Setting up a friendly, flexible routine, helps your child start the school year on the right foot — with less stress and more smiles! Remember: these tips, while practical and clear, are also difficult to create and enforce. Be kind to both yourself and your little one(s) as you transition from a season filled with fun and family togetherness to a more structured schedule with firmer expectations.
Wishing you a wonderful and smooth start to the school year!
Your lifestyle therapist,
Lilli Marmurek
MSW RSW
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