For working parents, summer can feel less like a break and more like a three-month balancing act of coordinating childcare, managing shifting schedules, and squeezing in family time between Zoom meetings and answering emails. The change in routine can leave both parents and children a little offbeat, and then, when everyone finally finds their rhythm, the summer is over and the new school year begins, ushering in another round of transitions and acclimation.
Predictability is one of the most powerful tools we can offer children; they thrive when they know what to expect. As the seasons change, so do routines, which can leave children feeling unsettled, leading to more meltdowns, resistance, or restlessness. While these transition periods don’t come with a handbook, a little planning can go a long way. What matters most is consistency, as predictable patterns help reduce anxiety, increase cooperation, and promote independence. Not to mention, they help parents run their days more smoothly.
Below are a few tips that families can follow to manage transitional periods for children.
Establish consistent routines. Maintaining a daily routine from morning to bedtime can help children feel secure and grounded. There’s no one-size-fits-all schedule that works for every child, and asking for their input can help determine what is best for your family. With younger children, watch for cues for activity level needs, emotional reactions, and how they handle transitions throughout the day. Your work schedule, childcare arrangements, and your child’s interests will all influence what your daily routine looks like. The key: Once established, as much as possible, stick to it.
Plan ahead. Create a calendar with upcoming key dates and events. For younger children, simple drawings, pictures, or color coding will help them follow the calendar themselves and reference it. At the start of each week, take a few moments to sit down together as a family to review the week ahead. It’s the perfect time to add new activities, address potential scheduling conflicts, and plan moments for fun, such as a trip to the playground or ice cream shop.
Balance work and family time. Setting clear boundaries between work and family time can help everyone maximize time together. This is especially important if you work from home, as it’s tough for little ones to understand when you’re on and off the clock. Letting them know when you’re working and when you’re available helps set expectations. Try to put your phone or computer away during family time to be fully present with your loved ones.
Prepare for upcoming seasonal changes. When a transition is approaching, like heading back to school, it can help to ease into the new routine. In the weeks leading up to school, start practicing routines so school mornings feel smoother. If your child is starting at a new school, visit the building ahead of time and spend time on the playground to build familiarity. Practicing skills like tying shoes, using the bathroom independently, and opening lunch containers can boost confidence and calm first-day jitters.
Most importantly, talk about these changes with enthusiasm! Your attitude can set the tone for how children approach the transition and can help them look forward to this next chapter with eagerness and resilience. Children will reflect what you project—be positive, excited, and speak affirmatively about their new school and teachers.
While managing busy schedules and transitions, focus on consistency, plan ahead, and don’t forget to celebrate small successes and enjoy the new adventures with your children.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Lauren Loquasto is the Chief Academic Officer at The Goddard School. For more parenting guidance, visit the Parent Resource Center at GoddardSchool.com.
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Cover photo by The Design Lady
