September 1st 2024.
As the summer holidays come to an end, parents are either enjoying their last moments of quality family time or eagerly counting down the seconds until autumn term begins. Regardless of which camp they fall into, the ultimate goal is to smoothly transition into the new school year without any tantrums or meltdowns, ensuring that little ones are happy, well-fed, and ready to learn.
Recently, Supernanny Jo Frost shared her thoughts on the importance of establishing a good morning routine. She called out parents who vlog their family's morning routine for social media, labeling it as "performative." According to the Channel 4 star, mornings should be a time for family connection, a well-practiced routine, and a positive mindset in preparation for the privilege of education. Frost also expressed her concern for the growing reliance on screens and technology as a morning babysitter, which can lead to chaotic mornings.
Establishing a good morning routine is not only beneficial for children's long-term development, but it can also have positive effects on adults and overall family dynamics. To help ease this transition, we spoke to Dr. Selina Warlow from The Nook Clinic. As a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity, she understands the challenges of balancing a child's emotions with the practicality of getting out the door on time. She shares her top tips for a stress-free morning routine that sets the whole family up for a successful day.
One of the key tips Dr. Warlow suggests is to prepare as much as possible the night before. This includes laying out school uniforms and helping children pack their bags. Having a designated spot by the front door for each child's belongings can also make the morning rush less chaotic and reduce the chances of losing important items.
Another important aspect is to give yourself and your family plenty of time in the morning. Rushing around and being late can create stress and tension for everyone. Dr. Warlow advises setting an alarm 15 minutes earlier than usual to allow for a slow and calm morning routine. This extra time can also come in handy in case of unexpected delays.
According to a recent study, 69% of parents believe that children have it easier in school now compared to when they were young. Many attribute this to technology, less strict teachers, and easier homework. However, parenting expert Kirsty Ketley argues that this is not necessarily the case. She believes that today's children face different challenges and pressures, such as the need to achieve and the constant use of smartphones. She encourages parents to show understanding and listen without projecting in order to best support their children.
While getting dressed, brushing teeth, and eating breakfast are necessary tasks, Dr. Warlow emphasizes the importance of making time for a snuggle with your child. This can be a great opportunity to talk about the day ahead and address any worries they may have. It also sets a positive tone for the day and strengthens the bond between parent and child.
To make the transition from bed to morning routine easier, Dr. Warlow suggests warming up with a warm drink or a cozy bathrobe or blanket. These small comforts can make the thought of getting out of bed a little less daunting.
A healthy breakfast is essential for children's overall well-being and concentration. Dr. Warlow recommends easy and nutritious options such as overnight oats, toast, omelets, and fruit-topped granola. It is also a great time for children to reflect on the day ahead and for parents to have a chat with them.
To make the morning routine more manageable, Dr. Warlow suggests using a checklist. This can help children become more independent and reduce the chances of forgetting important items. Going through the next day's schedule with your child and noting down what they need can help them stay on track.
Keeping a positive attitude and praising your child for completing their morning routine can make a world of difference. Creating a positive and fun atmosphere, such as playing music or turning the routine into a game, can also make the morning less daunting and more enjoyable.
Dr. Warlow stresses the importance of creating an open and supportive atmosphere for children to talk about their worries. Whether it's before bed or on the way to school, make sure there is time and space for your child to express themselves and feel heard. If worries persist or your child shows signs of school refusal, it may be beneficial to seek professional support.
In the end, a stress-free school morning is all about preparation, patience, and positivity. By following these tips and finding what works best for your family, you can ensure that every morning is a smooth and enjoyable start to the day. Do you have any other tips for a stress-free morning routine? Share them in the comments below!
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