Transitioning Back to School: Easy or Not?
Parenting & School Routines

Transitioning Back to School: Easy or Not?

December 2024
5 min read
Nugent Family Counseling

Discover why jumping straight into new schedules fails—and the simple 10-15 minute gradual adjustment technique that creates lasting bedtime routines for the whole family.

School is well underway for most of us. This transition back to school is not always the easiest.

Young people have had the opportunity to stay up late, have free evenings, and spend time doing all the things they have wanted to do.

The Challenge

The Schedule Shift

Shifting the routine from going to bed at 11pm to 9pm is not always the easiest.

Summer Bedtime

11 PM

School Bedtime

9 PM

What Most People Do (And Why It Fails)

The Common Mistake

If you are like most people you just jump in and make the change.

Like most people that does not last and is very unsuccessful.

The Solution: Nighttime Routines

For All Ages

Establishing a nighttime routine with children as young as 1½ all the way to 99 is helpful, especially in getting back into the swing of school.

Ages 1.5 to 99

This will look very different depending on the age of your child and yourself.

Why Routines Work

Routines create comfort

Comfort allows us to relax

The Gradual Adjustment Method

Shifting your schedule back to your normal routine may take time and should be gradual.

1

Small Time Increments

Start by moving up getting ready for bed by 10 to 15 minutes

2

The Goal

Being in bed by the same time or just a bit sooner

3

One Change at a Time

Changing one thing at a time will make the adjustment easier

10 to 15 Minutes at a Time

Give It a Try

Give it a try and see what happens.

Within a Couple of Weeks:

  • You will be in a healthy routine
  • Allowing yourself to get to bed
  • Getting a good night sleep
  • Ready to tackle the chaos the morning brings

The Simple Secret

Gradual 10-15 minute adjustments + consistent routines = successful back-to-school transitions for the whole family

Need More Parenting Support?

We're here to help with all your family's transitions and challenges

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Gradual Changes Work—Jumping In Doesn't

Most people fail transitioning back to school because they jump straight from 11pm summer bedtimes to 9pm school schedules—this doesn't last and is very unsuccessful. The solution: establish nighttime routines for ages 1.5 to 99 using gradual 10-15 minute increments, changing one thing at a time. Routines create comfort, comfort creates relaxation. Within a couple weeks, you'll have a healthy routine ensuring good sleep and readiness for morning chaos.