Returning to School Routines After Winter Break Why Structure Matters for School Age Children

School breaks provides children with valuable time to rest, reconnect with family, and step away from the daily structure of school. While this pause is healthy and often necessary, many families notice that returning to routines after the break can feel challenging. Later bedtimes, relaxed mornings, and flexible schedules can make the transition back to school expectations more difficult than anticipated. Re establishing routine after winter break is not simply about organization.

Why Routine Is Important for Children

Consistent routines provide predictability, which supports emotional security and reduces stress. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that predictable daily schedules help children feel safe and supported because they know what to expect throughout the day (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2023). This sense of stability is especially important during transitions such as returning to school after a long break.

Routines are also closely linked to the development of self regulation and executive functioning skills. Research shows that family routines are associated with improved attention, emotional control, and behavior, as well as stronger planning and organizational skills (Spagnola & Fiese, 2007). When children consistently practice routines for waking, eating, learning, and resting, they strengthen skills that support independence and success in the classroom.

Academic engagement is another area strongly supported by routine. When mornings and homework time follow predictable patterns, children can devote more mental energy to learning rather than managing uncertainty or transitions. Consistent schedules support smoother school mornings and increased readiness to participate in academic activities (Rossman School, 2021).

Sleep routines are particularly important following school breaks. Irregular sleep schedules can disrupt children’s internal clocks, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty sustaining attention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes that consistent sleep and wake times support cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, and physical health in children (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

Routines also benefit the entire family. Predictable schedules reduce daily stress for caregivers by minimizing rushed mornings and bedtime struggles. Families often report smoother transitions and clearer expectations when routines are consistently maintained (ThedaCare, 2023).

Why the Transition Back Can Be Difficult

During breaks from school, structure often loosens naturally. Bedtimes may shift later, screen time increases, and daily activities become more flexible. While this flexibility can be restorative, returning suddenly to early mornings and structured school days can feel overwhelming. Children may show increased emotional sensitivity, resistance to tasks, or difficulty waking. These responses are common during transitions and reflect a need for support rather than discipline (Child Mind Institute, 2023).

Five Ways to Support the Maintenance of Routines

1. Gradually reset sleep schedules. Begin adjusting bedtime and wake time several days before school resumes. Shifting schedules by fifteen to thirty minutes at a time allows children to adjust more comfortably (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2023).

2. Re establish consistent morning and evening routines. Predictable sequences help children move through transitions with greater independence. Morning routines might include waking up, getting dressed, eating breakfast, and preparing school materials in the same order each day. Evening routines should include calming activities that signal it is time to rest.

3. Use visual schedules or checklists. Visual supports help make routines concrete and reduce the need for repeated verbal reminders. Research indicates that visual structure supports independence and reduces stress during transitions (Spagnola & Fiese, 2007).

4. Maintain regular meal times. Consistent meal and snack times help regulate energy levels and behavior. Meal times also provide opportunities for connection and conversation that support emotional well being (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

5. Create positive transition rituals. Small supportive moments such as a family check in after school or a special breakfast on the first day back can help children associate routines with connection and encouragement rather than pressure (Child Mind Institute, 2023).

   
   

How BMS Supports Families

At BMS Pediatric Therapy Group, we recognize that transitions like returning to school routines can be challenging for children and families. Our therapists support families by embedding routines into therapy goals, coaching caregivers on realistic strategies that fit their daily lives, and helping children build regulation, communication, and executive functioning skills that support successful routines at home and school.

Whether a child needs support with transitions, emotional regulation, attention, or communication, our approach is rooted in collaboration, evidence based practice, and family centered care. We work alongside families to create routines that are sustainable, developmentally appropriate, and aligned with each child’s individual needs.

If your child is struggling with the return to school routines or if you would like guidance on building consistent routines that support communication, learning, and regulation, BMS is here to help. Contact BMS Pediatric Therapy Group to schedule a consultation or learn more about our speech and language services, parent coaching, and school age support programs serving families across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Healthy routines for children and families. https://www.aap.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Sleep and sleep disorders in children. https://www.cdc.gov

Child Mind Institute. (2023). Helping kids with transitions. https://childmind.org

Rossman School. (2021). The power of routines How consistent schedules benefit elementary school children. https://www.rossmanschool.org

Spagnola, M., & Fiese, B. H. (2007). Family routines and rituals A context for development in the lives of young children. Infants and Young Children, 20(4), 284–299. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.IYC.0000290352.32170.5a