From Summer to School: Easing the Transition with Simple Routines

As the long, playful days of summer wind down, many families find themselves navigating the sometimes-bumpy transition back into the school year. Whether your child is starting preschool for the first time or returning to a familiar classroom, one thing makes all the difference: routine.

At Move Play Say, we know routines aren't just about structure—they’re about creating security, predictability, and a rhythm that supports speech, language, and social development. A steady routine helps children feel safe and confident, which opens the door for learning and growth.

Children who follow routines at home have have stronger executive functioning skills—including attention, memory, impulse control, and emotional regulation—and, of course, improved speech and language development!

Why Routine Matters

• Predictability builds confidence Knowing what to expect throughout the day reduces anxiety and helps children feel in control.

• Language thrives in routine Repetition of daily tasks (e.g., brushing teeth, packing a bag, greeting teachers) builds vocabulary and supports sequencing skills.

• Transitions become smoother With routines in place, children can shift from play to school—and back again—with less resistance and fewer meltdowns.

Tips for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition

Here are some simple ways to bring routine back into your child’s day before the first bell rings:

🌞 1. Shift Bedtime & Wake Time Gradually

Start 1–2 weeks before school starts. Move bedtime and wake-up time by 15-minute increments every few days to help reset your child’s internal clock without a shock to the system.

📚 2. Practice the Morning Routine

Create a visual schedule (with pictures or words!) to help your child learn the steps: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, get backpack, and go! Act it out together to make it feel familiar and fun.

🍎 3. Reintroduce Mealtime Structure

Summer eating can be flexible—but school schedules aren’t. Begin regular breakfast, lunch, and snack times to help your child adjust to structured mealtimes.

🧠 4. Build in Focus Time

Start adding 10–15 minutes a day of focused, quiet play—like puzzles, coloring, or story time—to help ease the transition to classroom-style activities.

🎒 5. Talk About What’s Coming

Use simple language to talk through what school will be like. “You’ll see your teacher, sit on the rug, play with toys, eat lunch…” This supports language skills and prepares your child mentally and emotionally.

❤️ 6. Keep Goodbyes Predictable

If your child struggles with separation, practice a short goodbye routine: a hug, a wave, and a “See you after snack!” Predictable goodbyes help make drop-offs smoother.

Remember: Transitions don’t have to be perfect. It’s completely normal for both kids and grown-ups to need time to adjust. Establishing a routine isn’t about strict schedules—it’s about creating moments of predictability that help your child feel secure and ready for what’s next. Whether it’s waking up at the same time each day, singing the same goodbye song at drop-off, or building in quiet time before dinner, small changes add up.

It’s okay if your routine isn’t picture-perfect right away—consistency, patience, and flexibility are key. Some days will feel smooth, and others may feel like a challenge—and that’s all part of the process. What matters most is that your child knows they are supported, safe, and surrounded by people who believe in them.

At Move Play Say, we’re here to walk alongside you. Our speech therapists understand the power of routine and connection, and we’re always happy to help you build a plan that works for your unique child and family.

You’ve got this—and we’ve got you.

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