The transition from a flexible summer schedule to a school routine is stressful for both children and parents. The sudden wake-up call in the first days of autumn often results in tantrums and drowsiness. Therefore, a few simple and effective techniques can help make waking up in the morning easier and less stressful.
- Shift your schedule gradually
Don’t try to transition your child to an early rise overnight. Ideally, start preparing a week before school. Move bedtime and wake-up times 10–15 minutes earlier each day . This will allow your child’s biological clock to adjust gradually, and waking up early won’t feel like a disaster.
- Use a light alarm
In early September, if you’re having trouble waking up, open the curtains a few minutes before your alarm goes off to let in natural light or turn on a bright overhead light . Light reduces the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone) and naturally initiates wakefulness.
- Turn on the “morning magnet”
Waking up will go much faster if your child has something pleasant to look forward to right after waking up. Forget stern lectures about getting ready. Instead, offer your child a favorite breakfast that’s not usually prepared on weekdays (like pancakes, milk with coca) or 10 minutes of screen time or an interesting book with a cup of tea . You can also play pleasant, uplifting music in the background instead of the harsh sound of a standard alarm clock .
- Implement the two-glass rule
During the night, the body loses moisture, causing a person to feel sluggish and lethargic. Therefore, immediately after waking up, offer your child a glass of cool water (perhaps with a slice of lemon). Water will jump-start the metabolism, awaken the gastrointestinal tract, and quickly restore mental alertness.
- Assemble the “start zone” in the evening
Morning rush is often caused by small things: searching for a second sock, a notebook, or hastily ironing a shirt. To avoid this, fold all your clothes, pack your backpack, and prepare your school supplies the night before . Then, in the morning, all you have to do is calmly wash your face and have breakfast, maintaining a good mood for the whole day.
Advice for parents: The first few days of September require maximum patience. Praise your child for their independence and try to go to bed early with them – this will help the whole family adjust to the new schedule.
