School holidays come with a little bit of freedom. After all, the homework and early mornings are halted for a while.
This leads to school children having more time for entertainment, TV, phones and more sleep. It can also lead to many dreading school nights, because they have gotten so used to the comfortable life enjoyed during school holidays.
Here’s how your children can get back to their school night routine:
Create a routine chart
According to MercyHealth, a routine chart can help children visualise and follow their daily schedules.
Use colourful markers or stickers to make it fun and engaging. This visual aid reinforces the importance of sticking to their routine and helps them manage their time more effectively.
Gradually adjust bedtimes
Sleep Health Foundation suggests that you move their bedtime up by 30 minutes each night until you reach the desired time for bed. You can achieve this by turning off the television, and other electronics such as video games and iPods about an hour before bedtime.
“Children need between nine and 10 hours of sleep a night. Helping your child get into a good sleep routine will benefit their academic performance and help them become more engaged in activities in and outside of school,” they said.
Lay out clothes for the morning
Preparing clothes for the following day will help your child get used to the schedule of school nights easier. This will also ensure that they are not under pressure in the morning when they are preparing for school.
“Whenever possible, organise clothing and uniform for your kids on the weekends for the whole week,” suggested Rhiannah Morgan- mummy of four.
Also see: Bullying, violence and vandalism in primary school: Study explores a growing crisis in SA
