Getting your family and home back into a routine after summer can be a smooth transition with some planning and consistency.

Summer is a time for fun and spontaneity so you may have found that your family’s routine has gone from efficient to erratic. But that’s what summer is for, right?

Here are some ways you can re-establish a routine for your family and home:

1. Start Early

• Gradual Shift: Begin adjusting sleep schedules a couple of weeks before the end of summer. Gradually move bedtime and wake-up times earlier by 15-30 minutes every few days.
• Morning Routines: Reinstate or introduce morning routines, including getting dressed and having breakfast at the same time each day.

2. Plan Ahead

• Create a Schedule: Outline a daily routine that includes wake-up times, meal times, school or work hours, homework time, chores, and leisure activities.
• Weekly Calendar: Use a family calendar to keep track of everyone’s activities and appointments.

3. Re-establish Chores and Responsibilities

• Chore Chart: Reintroduce or update the chore chart, ensuring each family member knows their responsibilities.
• Consistency: Stick to the assigned chores and encourage everyone to complete them on schedule.

4. Prepare for School or Work

• Supplies: Make sure school supplies, uniforms, and work materials are ready.
• Designate Areas: Create dedicated spaces for homework and work, ensuring they are free from distractions and well-organized.

5. Focus On Healthy Habits

• Nutrition: Plan and prepare balanced meals and snacks.
• Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, such as family walks or sports.

6. Limit Screen Time

• Set Boundaries: Establish and enforce rules for screen time, including limits on TV, computers, and mobile devices.
• Tech-Free Zones: Create tech-free times or zones, such as during meals or before bedtime.

7. Plan Family Time

• Regular Activities: Schedule regular family activities like game nights, outings, or dinners together.
• Communication: Use family time to discuss the day, upcoming plans, and any concerns.

8. Prepare for the Transition

• Talk About It: Discuss the upcoming changes with your family to prepare everyone mentally for the new routine.
• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude about the return to routine, focusing on the benefits and fun aspects.

9. Be Flexible and Patient

• Adjust as Needed: Be prepared to adjust the routine if it’s not working perfectly at first. Flexibility can help reduce stress.
• Patience: Give everyone time to adjust to the new routine, especially if the summer break was long.

10. Review and Reflect

• Weekly Check-ins: Have weekly family meetings to review how the routine is working and make any necessary adjustments.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate when the family successfully follows the routine.

By gradually reintroducing structure and being consistent, your family can smoothly transition back to a regular routine after the summer break.