Getting Kids Back on Track after a Break from School

What can I do to get my kids back on track so they can do their best in school?

“It can be a challenge to resume routines after a break from homework and early mornings. Parents can overcome this by quickly getting back to basics,” says Kara Carter, M.D., a board-certified pediatrician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.

Dr. Carter suggests that parents consider the following tips for helping children get back into the regular groove:

• Re-establish regular family and back-to-school routines, which are especially important for promoting children’s sense of security and stability.
• Encourage healthy eating with reliable and consistent snack and meal times. Eat together as a family in your home at least once a day.
• Make sure kids get daily indoor and outdoor play and exercise.
• Cut back on television, video games, and computer usage. Play board games or sports together for leisure instead. Have children start winding down about an hour before bedtime.
• Expect chores to be done in the usual manner. Post morning and evening checklists for each child.
• Create quiet times for regular homework activities

“You may get resistance at first, but it' important to stick with the plan. Children take comfort in routines and may even be relieved to get back to them,” says Dr. Carter, who cares for patients at Kelsey Seybold’s Cypress Clinic. “Remember to be patient as things gradually return to normal.