5 simple steps to successfully get back to your family routine

Here are five tips to help you ease back into the swing of things and get your kids motivated for the start of the school year in January, with kindness and consistency.

1. Slow down before reorganizing

While it may be tempting to jump right back into the routine after the excitement of the holidays, kids' nervous systems need time to adjust. It's a good idea to give yourself a few days to ease back into things and get back to a more regular rhythm before reorganizing everything. This is probably more realistic for the little ones—and, let's face it, for you too!

Why not watch a movie, play a board game, or simply take a nap together? By planning quiet family activities and taking your time, you'll get better cooperation from your kids.

During this slow-down period, consider returning to a more regular sleep schedule. Give yourself a few days to gradually reestablish the bedtime routine, for example by moving bedtime 15 minutes earlier each day. The important thing is to agree on a clear structure based on your children's ages—otherwise you may face stiff resistance —and stick to it. This will minimize unwanted reactions. 

Keep in mind that kids respond better to routine changes when they are predictable. Since words and repetition are sometimes not enough, you can incorporate a few visual cues to help your little ones and reassure them as they get back into their daily routine. In addition to creating a sense of anticipation, these cues will promote their independence, as they will be able to refer to them at any time. During the day, remind them of this visual schedule to help them remember what needs to be done, or to help them keep track of the day's events.

This solution is particularly useful as it provides the clearer framework we mentioned earlier, which improves cooperation. With older kids, do this exercise together, identifying the tasks to be done and the priorities. A simple list can save a lot of arguments!

Remember that it's normal for kids to be more agitated after a lot of stimulation. This isn't manipulation or bad behavior on their part, it's just emotional overload setting in. Offering creative activities, free play, and short trips outside can help them regulate themselves and relax.

If they are still excited after burning off some energy, suggest a less active game. It may seem counterintuitive, but quiet play (books, blocks, puzzles, drawing, crafts, etc.) is also calming for the nervous system.

A child who was cooperating well before the holidays may now seem to have regressed. Their reactions may be more intense, they may be less compliant with instructions, and squabbles between siblings may be more frequent. This is not a setback, but a temporary adjustment period. Your child needs time, space, and reassurance to manage their emotions.

Maintain a certain degree of structure while showing understanding and tolerance. You can adjust your expectations, be a little more flexible when dealing with outbursts, and offer a reassuring presence. These actions will have a calming effect on your child and help them return to a state of calm more quickly.

Don't forget about yourself! You also need to get back to a more stable routine. The main difference between kids and parents is that you know why your family needs this routine: it keeps you organized and on track!

So take your time to reestablish routines, plan for transitions, and adjust your expectations. This way, you'll be more available to respond to your children's needs, create an environment that suits you, and, as a bonus, maintain a more harmonious family atmosphere.

Remember: returning to a routine after the holidays is more effective when done gradually, with predictable landmarks and a pace that calms children's nervous systems.

Welcome back, and above all, happy new year!