A few ideas to make the transition from the holidays back to school a little easier.
Realise the impact
For children, from toddlers to teenagers, it is quite a switch after a long holiday in which nothing had to be done and there was no pressure. A new class or classroom, a new teacher, lots of things that have to be done again. Children need to get used to it and get back into the rhythm of school. As parents, we sometimes underestimate the impact this has on children, especially if your child does not show it clearly on the outside or say so.
Show understanding
Above all, they need understanding from us. That we understand, and can explain to them, why they are tense or very tired or have a short fuse. Or why they slip back a little, for example with toilet training or thumb-sucking. A child does not understand where that comes from, and it helps them enormously if we see it, understand it, talk about it with them and of course take it into account. So show some understanding for your contrary, emotional child. That transition really is no small thing.
Back on track in time
Go back to normal bedtimes and daily routines and structure in good time. Eat on time and at the table again, and pick up the evening and morning rituals as before. If you gradually introduce this before the end of the holidays, the transition will be less abrupt.
(Re)discuss agreements
With children from about 3 or 4, you can briefly go over the (house) rules that apply (again). Or make them visible on a daily or weekly calendar or a list of agreements. As a family, you can take a moment to reflect on what you find important at home, with each other and, for example, around meals and chores. The more you discuss and decide together, the greater the commitment.
Keep it manageable
Keep the first weeks after the holidays a bit manageable for your children (and yourself!). Don’t immediately cram every day full with one playdate after another. Keep things calm and see what your child can handle.
Keep giving attention
Hold on to the time and attention you had for your child during the holidays after the holidays too. Of course this cannot be done in the same way, but try to create moments throughout the day when you consciously make time for them. If only because it is so much fun!
Source: Tischa Neve for Gezinnig
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