7 Easy Tips to Reset Your Back-to-School Routine

Let’s be honest — summer is magic, but routines? Not exactly the star of the season. Between flexible bedtimes, spontaneous outings, and endless screen time (hey, we’ve been there), it’s no wonder that getting your child back into a back to school routine can feel like a major parenting hurdle.

The good news: with a little planning and a few gentle shifts, your family can ease into a routine that feels good — for both kids and grownups. Here are 7 simple, parent-tested tips to get everyone prepped before the first bell rings.

1. Start the Morning Wake-Up Shift — Now

If your kids have been sleeping past 8 AM (or later), it’s time to gradually start waking them earlier. About two weeks before school starts, begin adjusting bedtime and wake-up time by 15-minute increments every few days. This slow reset helps their bodies (and moods) adjust more naturally than a sudden early morning shock.

Bonus Tip: Use blackout curtains to support better sleep at an earlier bedtime, especially if it's still light outside during summer evenings.

2. Build a Visual Routine Together

Visual schedules are a game-changer for helping kids feel in control and less overwhelmed. Try creating a simple chart with pictures or drawings that outline the morning and evening routines:

Morning Routine Ideas: Brush teeth

  • Get dressed
  • Eat breakfast
  • Put on shoes
  • Grab backpack

Evening Routine Ideas: Bath/shower

  • Pajamas
  • Pick tomorrow’s outfit
  • Storytime
  • Lights out

Let your child help decorate or add stickers to their chart. Making it a team project builds excitement — and buy-in.

3. Do a Practice Run (Or Two!)

You’ve got the routine on paper, but how does it actually go IRL? A few “dress rehearsals” can make a big difference. About a week before school starts, try a full run-through: wake up, get dressed, eat, and leave the house as if it’s a real school day. This helps identify any time crunches and gives your child a preview of the real deal.

If your morning includes a commute or carpool, this is also a good time to check that your car seat setup is ready to roll. Our Pico® Travel Car Seat is a lifesaver for families on the go — lightweight, foldable, and easy to move between cars.

4. Reset Screen Time Expectations

Let’s face it — screen limits get a little blurry during summer. Instead of going cold turkey, try gradually cutting back in the weeks leading up to school. Set designated “screen-free” blocks during typical learning hours (like 8–3) and introduce more quiet activities: coloring, puzzles, audiobooks, or simple crafts.

5. Shift Meal and Snack Times

It’s easy for summer mealtimes to drift, but syncing back up with the school day is key. Start serving breakfast, lunch, and snacks closer to the times your child will eat at school. This can help prevent mid-morning hunger or after-school hangry moments — especially for younger kiddos adjusting to new lunch schedules.

Pack a few “practice lunches” at home to help them get used to opening containers or managing utensils solo. You’ll also learn what they’ll actually eat when you're not there to remind them!

6. Talk About What to Expect

Whether it’s a new teacher, a new classroom, or an entirely new school, change can bring a lot of big feelings. Help your child feel prepared by talking through what their day might look like. You can:

  • Drive or walk by the school
  • Look at photos of the classroom or teachers online
  • Role-play classroom scenarios at home
    • Raising your hand to answer questions
    • Asking to go the the restroom
    • Standing in a line

Normalize any nerves and keep the door open for questions. The more your child knows what to expect, the more confident they’ll feel on day one.

7. Make Packing Up a Team Effort

Avoid the last-minute scramble by making backpacks, lunches, and clothes a nightly task — and one your child helps with. Younger kids can choose between two outfits or pick a favorite snack, while older ones can take the lead. When they’re part of the process, they’re more likely to remember what they need the next day.

Psst... if your mornings include travel or drop-offs with grandparents or nannies, our travel bag collection is designed to help you stay organized on the go. Check out The WAYB Bag Collection for lightweight, family-friendly options that work with your real life.

Remember: Progress Over Perfection

You don’t have to go from summer chaos to full structure overnight. Transitioning into a back to school routine takes time, patience, and flexibility. Some days will go smoothly, others may be full of “where are your shoes?!” energy. That’s okay.

What matters most is creating a rhythm that works for your family — one that supports your child’s confidence and helps you all start the day with a little more ease.