Getting Back Into the Routine: A Teacher, Parent, and Coach’s Reflection
Let’s be honest—getting back into the routine can be downright exhausting. And yes, it’s okay to admit that, even as a teacher, parent, and coach! There are definitely moments of excitement and relief as we slip back into the rhythm of our daily lives (usually the structure we all secretly crave). But there’s also the challenge of transitioning from the unstructured freedom of summer into the school-year grind.
The Mixed Emotions of a Parent
When my kids were little, summer was my absolute favorite time of the year. The house was filled with laughter, energy, and the constant buzz of activity. Of course, it wasn’t without its challenges, as I tried to balance work with summer fun. But there was something so beautiful about having my children home, and I cherished the time we spent together.
As August came to a close, I always felt a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was sad to see summer end and the kids be away more. On the other hand, I was excited for the fresh start that the new school year brought—anticipating their growth, the new experiences they would have, and the routines that would eventually settle in.
Back-to-school prep was always a fun and special time for me. I loved shopping for supplies, organizing calendars, and creating drop zones so we could start the year as smoothly as possible. It felt like we were ready to tackle whatever came our way.
Lessons Learned: Making the Transition Easier
Over the years, I’ve learned a few things that helped make the back-to-school transition easier for all of us. Here are some of the key takeaways:
1. Keep a Positive Vibe
It’s important to stay positive, but that doesn’t mean ignoring the hard feelings. Being real about how we feel—whether it’s excitement, nerves, or even dread—helps set a healthy tone. Let your kids know that it’s okay to feel both excited and nervous about change. Staying positive means being honest with yourself and with them. Even when things get tough, there’s always room for hope, problem-solving, and growth.
2. Value Education
My husband and I are both educators, so it’s probably no surprise that we place a high value on learning. But no matter your background, it’s essential to see the value in doing your best and prioritizing the process of learning.Respecting teachers, their time, and their effort is crucial—but it’s also important to remember that respect doesn’t mean blind compliance.
Equally important is being present for your child throughout their educational journey. Always encourage them, no matter what, and make sure they know you’re there to listen to any concerns or struggles they may face—whether it’s with schoolwork, friendships, or the everyday challenges that come with growing up. Being a steady, nonjudgmental presence in their lives makes them feel heard and supported, which boosts their confidence in facing whatever comes their way.
It’s okay if your child doesn’t like every teacher, class, or subject. Life isn’t always going to go their way, but the key is showing them that their job is to do their best, no matter the situation. And most importantly, let them know that together, you can tackle any challenges that arise.
3. Homework Is Non-Negotiable
For us, homework was never optional—it was just part of the routine. I let the routine do the talking. How and when they did homework was up to them, but not doing it was never an option. Yes, they tested the limits at times (as kids do), but consistency in expectations made things smoother in the long run. Homework wasn’t about making them feel forced; it was about understanding responsibility and the importance of following through.
4. Routine Is Everything
Routines might look different for every family, but they work wonders. For us, visual reminders and clear expectations were key. Communicate ahead of time what’s expected and practice routines a few days before school starts, like a “dry run” of the new schedule. When kids know what to expect, it makes transitions much easier.
5. Letting Go
Ah, the hardest part for any parent—letting go. It’s tough, especially when you’ve spent so much time preparing your kids for the world. I remember feeling anxious about things like sending them on the bus for the first time or letting a stranger drive them to school. I worried about what they might hear or the situations they might face. But I had to remind myself that I had prepared them as best as I could. The practice was over; now it was game time. I couldn’t shield them from every challenge, but I could support them through it.
Being their biggest cheerleader and listening when they needed to talk was vital. Sometimes that meant having tough conversations and holding them accountable when they didn’t want to. As a parent, my role was to guide them through tough decisions, remind them of how we show up in the world, and give them the space to grow.
6. New Routines Take Time
Everyone needs time to adjust—kids, parents, and even the family dog! It’s normal to experience some bumps in the road, including tough mornings, big emotions, and plenty of tired faces. My advice? Keep things simple when needed—make breakfast for dinner or let the kids make their own sandwiches. The first week is always the hardest, but give it time. Your bodies and minds will adjust, and in a few weeks, you’ll find your rhythm again.
Leading with Love and Empathy
In the world we live in, there’s a lot to worry about. It’s easy to fall into panic and fear. But our children need us to be steady, strong, and, most importantly, loving. They need us to lead with compassion and empathy while also holding them to high expectations. Our job is to help them grow into the best versions of themselves, even when it’s hard.
So, as we dive back into routines this year, let’s remember that it’s okay to feel tired and overwhelmed. It’s part of the process. And though the transition might not be easy, we’re all in it together. We’ve got this.
What are some back-to-school tips that help your family transition smoothly? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear what works for you!
_____________________________________________________________________________________
For more tips see my other post on back to school, click HERE
If you need support on your parenting journey, reach out for a free connection call 💗
https://www.connectionsparentcoaching.com/
For more tips on parenting follow me on instagram @connectionsparentcoaching
Comments
Post a Comment