By: Woodruff Times Staff
As the final weeks of summer vacation tick by, parents across Spartanburg County face the same seasonal question: How do we get the kids back into school mode?
Should routines start shifting in mid-July, or is it okay to let children soak up every ounce of summer until the night before school starts?
According to pediatric experts, easing into a school-year schedule—especially when it comes to sleep and screen habits—can make a big difference for students and parents alike. “Taking a week or so before school starts to help kids start adjusting to waking up earlier, getting ready and having breakfast as soon as they get up,” recommends Dr. Whiteside of Mayo Clinic.
She notes that structure helps build confidence but also encourages adaptability: “Kids need to learn that
they can handle change. And having a routine is good. Learning that you can handle life not following that routine is equally good.”
Sleep First, Screens Second
Among the top concerns is sleep, especially after months of late nights and lazy mornings. Pediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Katzenstein recommends a gradual shift in bedtime and wake-up
time—starting ideally two weeks before school begins. “Begin the new sleep schedule two weeks before
school starts by gradually shifting the bedtime and the morning alarm earlier by increments of 15
minutes,” Katzenstein said.
She also emphasized reducing digital time in the evenings. “We need to bring that [screen time] back in to no more than two hours per day,” she advised, aligning with guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Prep Builds Confidence
In addition to sleep and screen routines, experts say families should consider reintroducing some structure to daytime activities. This can include meal routines, setting out clothes the night before, and even morning checklists to help ease anxiety and boost independence.
Letting children be part of the planning helps, too. Whether it’s picking out school supplies or creating a “first week” breakfast menu, small decisions can help students of all ages feel more in control.
Dr. Amy Cobb of University Health says that readiness is about more than supplies—it’s about well-
being. “Kids who are healthy, happy and well-rested have the best chance of succeeding in the classroom and life,” Cobb said.
Don’t Cut Summer Short— Balance It
Still, parents shouldn’t feel pressured to shut down summer fun entirely. Experts agree that the final days of vacation are a great time for family bonding, outdoor play, and memory-making. The trick, they say, is to introduce small changes—earlier bedtimes, calmer evenings, fewer digital distractions—while still giving kids the chance to enjoy the spirit of summer.
So whether you’re easing into routines now or waiting until the last week, the goal is the same: to help
students return to class confident, well-rested, and ready to learn.
Sources: Mayo Clinic News Network: “Building a Back-to-School Routine”
New York Post: “I’m a Neuropsychologist — Here Are 3 Ways to Ease Back-to-School Anxiety”, August 2024 University Health: “Back to School Tips from Pediatricians” American Academy of Pediatrics: Media and Sleep Guidelines
Author: Tracy Sanders
