“The only person who likes change is a wet baby.” This quote from Mark Twain seems appropriate given the inevitable changes occurring at home as another school year comes to a close. Parents, we need to consider ourselves lucky. Our kids have had nine months of consistency thanks to the hard work of many teachers. We just need to follow their lead and not blow it.

Although students are about to take a break from the typical school day schedule they’ve been following, they still need to stick to some predictable routine during the summer months. Unfortunately, it is easy to fall into the trap of letting our children stay in bed late, remain glued to TV / video games, or simply grab food when the urge strikes – but the reality is they function better they have a good routine:

• A consistent sleeping and waking time
• A limit on screen time
• Regular physical activity
• Home responsibilities (chores)
• Family talk and play time (“unplugged” family dinners)

You might be thinking, “My child is older. At what age does this information cease to be applicable?” If your child still lives with you, it applies. Bottom line – change is hard for all of us, so keep your children in a good routine over the summer. Not only will a schedule make for a happier household, but it will help us all when August arrives and our kids have to jump right back into their typical school day routine once more.