Getting all your children ready for school can be a hassle, but planning a routine in advance can save you a lot of stress in the long run. These are some of the best tips to get your kids ready for school and out the door in a reasonable amount of time based on age, compiled from a variety of parenting experts, blogs and other resources.
Preschoolers and Kindergarteners
- Prepare outfits, lunch, etc. the night before.
- Stick to a consistent wake-up time.
- Leave time to chat and connect before school.
- Encourage children to dress themselves.
- Avoid screens before school.
- Use a morning playlist to motivate timely prep.
- Allow a time buffer to drive or catch the bus.
Elementary and Middle Schoolers
- Waking up before your child allows you to decompress.
- Use an alarm clock and let your child choose their own.
- Have kids make their own bed and prepare breakfast.
- Prep students for an earlier wake-up time the week before school starts.
- Use a checklist for school supplies and assignments.
High Schoolers
- Encourage a reasonable bedtime the night before.
- Let teens plan their own morning routines.
- Stock grab-and-go breakfast like granola or yogurt.
- Use planners and time management apps.
- Reduce stress by avoiding confrontation or demands right when they wake up.
- Check that teen drivers are alert and ready to drive safely.
