Even though I love the lazy days of summer, I look forward to getting back into routine come
September. During the summer months when we don’t have early morning wake-ups, my
children and I enjoy a delayed bedtime. We get to enjoy campfires, star gaze in hopes of
spotting a comet, evening swims, or cuddling on the couch watching a movie together. Since the
sun goes down later, no one is tired at the typical bedtime.
As summer winds down we slowly begin to return to our nightly routines. We don’t jump right
into our school schedule but instead we gradually move bedtime up in 30 minute increments
until we reach the appropriate time. Making changes too abruptly means there is more of a chance that
there will be resistance to the change.
Routines are good for everyone but especially for children. A good routine helps a child gain
insight on what will happen next. Routines also help children who struggle with transitioning
from activity to activity. Routines help those children emotionally prepare for what will come
next. Over time, children will learn independence and start their routines themselves. This will
also help a child to feel accomplished and build self esteem.
Remember when creating routines that you make sure they are flexible. Sometimes events or
activities come up and the routine needs to be adjusted. Sudden changes can be confusing or
unsettling for some, so if possible, giving warning of changes is helpful.
Thankfully we have a week or so more to enjoy the lazy days of summer before my children and
I start the transition to our fall schedule and their nightly routine returns. For now, you’ll find me sitting around a cozy campfire soaking it all in.
