Holidays are times when we give kids a break to relax and be carefree – and to stay up late. The downside of it all, is that it can become a battle to get them back into their normal routine when the new term starts.
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This is particularly difficult after long school holidays when kids have had a few weeks to become used to a more relaxed style of parenting, mid-week sleep-overs and staying up late.
Children need at least nine hours of uninterrupted sleep in order to perform optionally at school. A tired child finds it difficult to concentrate at school, may become moody and would struggle to remember what he/she has learnt. How do you make the transition to a school routine as easily as possible for yourself and your children?
Establishing a routine
The key is to get children used to their normal routine, even during the holidays. Start getting them in bed at their usual bedtime two weeks before the term starts. This can be done gradually.
Also revert to their usual pre-bedtime activies such as supper time, bathtime, teeth brushing and a bedtime story.
If new school clothes are needed, buy them during this time. Encourage your child to get their clothes ready a few days before term starts and to clean and pack their school bags.
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