More Tips to Help Ease Your Child's Morning Routine

"Why can't I wear my pajamas to school?" 

Last week I shared a few tips on setting up a good morning routine. Here are a few more tricks to make school mornings run smoother. Deciding what a child should wear to school can cause morning conflicts.

1. Try choosing two outfits of clothing the night before, (that you both agree will work.) Lay them out. Put socks, underwear, pants, skirts, shirts, or ribbons, etc. in a large baggie for each outfit. In the morning, let your child choose which "bag" they will wear that day, knowing that the clothes in the leftover bag can be worn the next day. This empowers your child to make choices, and usually takes care of two days at a time!
2. Prepare backpacks the night before. If your child has homework, make sure they immediately put it away in their backpack upon completion. This eliminates the “My Mom forgot to put it my backpack” excuse!
3. The easiest way to keep your mornings stress-free is to follow a consistent routine each school day: Get your child up at the same time Monday through Friday. Plan on your child needing at least 15 to 20 minutes for personal hygiene and dressing.
4. Allow enough time for a nutritious breakfast. Studies show that children who eat a balanced breakfast do better in school, are more attentive, and are better behaved. A mix of protein and carbohydrates is best. Carbs (cereals, fruits, and breads,) give a quick energy “kick” and protein (milk, eggs, meat, and peanut butter) sustains your child until lunch.
5. Encourage your child to talk about their upcoming day at school. Planning the tasks your child will accomplish will put him or her in the right frame of mind to tackle the day