Back to school, back to routine. After the over-scheduled weekends, missed bedtimes and general overdoing that comes with trying to make the most of a Milwaukee summer, it’s time for a reset. We reached out to some local parents to find out how they’re getting back into routine with their families this fall.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
For Kids 5 and Under
The advice: Verbalize the routine
Don’t underestimate your littles – preschool kids understand more than we give them credit for. Talk openly about changes to their routine, so they can process and start to anticipate what’s coming.
Advice in action: “Two of the biggest helps: communication and consistency. Communication about what comes next; consistency in routine to establish trust. That way, they know they can count on the routine – the order of events – even if the timing shifts, like for daylight saving time. Verbally prepping expectations helps tremendously. Even if it seems they don’t grasp what you’re saying, the act of repeatedly telling them helps a ton.”
– Bailey Bintz, kid aged 4
The advice: Visualize the routine
What little kid doesn’t love a good sticker chart? Visual aids are a great way for pre-readers to process information, track progress and understand routines and expectations.
Advice in action: “Lists that include graphics or icons showing their daily and nightly routines are really helpful. Something like magnets, where your kids can move little stars from the ‘to-do’ column to the ‘done’ column.”
– Adam O’Leske, kid aged 4
The advice: Power in predictability
From visual charts to verbal reminders, there’s a common thread here: predictability. One great thing about this stage? Once a child grasps a routine and knows what needs to be done next, they start to surprise you with their independence.
Advice in action: “Kids thrive on predictability. Even if each day of the week looks a little different, communicate often so everyone knows what to expect. Get them involved in the process. Take little things off your own plate – you’ll feel calmer and more patient.”
– Julie Ruffino, kid aged 5
The advice: Embrace their involvement
Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. In the context of a preschooler, that means: Let the littles get involved. Mismatched socks and a sense of accomplishment can be just as satisfying as winning Best Dressed.
Advice in action: “Have them help pack their backpack or lunches. Let them pick out their clothes for the day.”
– Aaron Wiech, kid aged 5
For Elementary Schoolers
The advice: Focus on practical reminders and mindset
Older kids have the capacity for more-detailed routines, reminders and expectation-setting. They also have more complicated emotions and self-esteem to manage. As parents, work on nurturing all the above.
Advice in action: “We made a list of reminders and taped it to the back door so our kids can check both their chores and mindset for the day. Our reminders:
- Clean up room
- Brush teeth
- Eat breakfast
- Put lunch and water in backpack
- No TV/tablets in the morning!
- Take dog for a walk
- Read or stretch
- Treat everyone with kindness
- Be respectful
- Give your best effort
- You are unique, brave and loved!”
– Jenna Renno, kids aged 7 and 9
The advice: Carve out time to rest and reconnect
Parents often talk about the relief they feel once school starts, but some will admit to missing their kids when they’re suddenly not around. News flash: Your kids miss you, too! After the go-go-go of summer, schedule time to slow down and reconnect over these early fall weekends.
Advice in action: “Kids need time to rest, recover and spend time with their parents, who they may miss if they see them more during the summer. I personally always feel like a boyfriend or best friend just broke up with me when my kids go back to school. I love spending time with them, and they are pulled out from under you so fast!”
– Molly Pufall Brown, kids aged 7, 10 and 12
The advice: Establish responsibilities and hold boundaries
From chores to homework, fall brings a surge of non-negotiable to-dos for kids. Make sure you have time to help them navigate the unknowns, especially in the beginning. Adding responsibilities to their plate? Hold your boundaries.
Advice in action: “New routines and responsibilities come down to the parent setting the boundary and sticking with it. Kids might fight the new chores or bedtime for the first week, but soon they’ll give up. As long as you stick to your guns, they will get back into routine.”
– Ashton Henry, kids aged 10 and 12
The advice: Start conversations now
“How was school today?” you ask. “Fine.” Let’s avoid this cliché convo rut. Make a conscious effort to strike up real conversations with your kids during carpool, while making dinner, before bedtime – whenever you sense they’re willing to open up.
Advice in action: “Start conversations now about what happened at school and what was the best part of their day. Make that part of the routine as well – establishing whatever communication and conversations you want to be having with your kids. Start now to set yourself up for the year ahead.”
– Ashton Henry, kids aged 10 and 12
For Parents and Kids of All Ages
The advice: Give yourself grace
Change is hard, and harder for some than others. Know that establishing routines takes time. Don’t throw in the towel. You are the parent – the boundary-setter, the leader by example. And if you’re doing your best, that’s all you can do.
Advice in action: “Be kind to yourself and your kids. New routines are hard, and you don’t know what to expect. So, stick to a routine as best you can, but be flexible. Remember your kids are kids, and no two kids or routines are going to look the same day over day.”
– Ashton Henry, Kids aged 10 and 12
