Waking up in the morning and getting ready for school can be challenging for children, especially if they do not have a calm and structured routine. Mornings that start with confusion can lead to unnecessary stress and make them unfocused. Many children experience unnecessary tension, lateness, and a rough start to their day because of common mistakes that parents often make unknowingly. This article covers some of the common mistakes that parents should avoid before school and how to create a smoother routine.
1. Yelling or Arguing
Children who have bad interactions with their parents in the morning cause them to feel tense. That tension can affect their entire day. Parents should avoid yelling or arguing with their children in the morning, which they often do while urging them to move faster.
Instead of yelling, use encouraging words and gentle reminders. Have a structured routine and be patient, allowing the morning to be peaceful and your child relaxed.
3. Skipping a Nutritious Breakfast
Some children skip breakfast when they are running late. This is an unhealthy habit that will negatively affect how their body functions throughout the day. In some cases, children have sugary, processed foods over a nutritious breakfast, which can lead to energy crashes.
Focus on letting your child have a nutritious breakfast with lots of protein before school, which keeps them fuelled and focused. Consider feeding them eggs, oatmeal, yoghurt, or whole grains.
4. Excessive Screen Time
It may be tempting to allow your child to use tablets, TVs, or phones in the morning, especially if it makes them happy. While this may seem harmless fun before school, it can be a major distraction. It can lead to them being late if they get too absorbed.
Consider implementing a rule prohibiting screen time before they are completely ready for school. This encourages them to move fast to get a bit of fun before leaving the house.
5. Not Encouraging Hydration
Most children experience mild dehydration in the mornings. This disrupts their concentration and lowers their energy levels. Drinking water first thing in the morning can go a long way. It can enhance focus and improve digestion and overall well-being.
6. Skipping a Proper Goodbye
Many parents forget to give their children a proper send-off, especially when they are late and rushing out the door. How you say goodbye to your child in the morning can significantly impact their day.
Hugs, high-fives, and words of encouragement make them feel loved and supported. This can boost their academic performance at school. You only need a few seconds to give them a heartfelt goodbye.
7. Overloading the Morning with Tasks
While some children have chores in the mornings, it can become stressful if they are expected to complete homework and other responsibilities. This can cause them to be late or rush to get ready.
Create a routine that prioritises chores and additional responsibilities after school. Allow them to focus on hygiene, dressing, eating, and leaving on time for school in the mornings.
Creating a Stress-Free Morning Routine
Avoiding these mistakes will allow your child to have a stress-free morning while boosting their energy, concentration, and even their productivity in school. Consider incorporating these strategies to have a successful morning routine:
- Prepare the night before by laying out their clothes, packing their lunches, and checking their school bags to ensure everything is in order.
- Set a consistent wake-up, which gives your child adequate time to get ready at a steady pace.
- Use a simple morning checklist to help your child stay on track.
- Stay positive by being calm and cheerful, which helps to create an uplifting atmosphere.
- Make mornings enjoyable by playing uplifting music, sharing fun facts, or engaging in friendly conversations.