Smooth Sailing from Summer to School: A Stress-Free Morning Guide

It’s summer! The sun is shining, kids are riding bikes, bathing suits are drying on the line, and bedtime? Well, that’s been tossed out the window. This is the season to enjoy the freedom and fun that comes with long, lazy days. For kids with ADHD, summer can feel like a dream—no one telling them to stop fidgeting in their chair, no pressing deadlines, and no scrambling to find today's homework assignment. If only summer vacation could last forever, right? But as we all know, the days of summer fun are numbered.

As the school year looms closer, it's time to start thinking about how to set our kids up for success when the routine kicks back in. The transition from the unstructured bliss of summer to the structured environment of school can be particularly challenging for children with ADHD. However, with some proactive planning, you can make this shift smoother for everyone involved.

1. Create a Designated Spot for Backpacks

First on the list: designate a spot for your kids’ backpacks. There’s nothing more stressful than rushing out the door in the morning, only to realize you can’t find their knapsacks. By establishing a specific place where backpacks are always stored, you eliminate this common morning stressor.

2. Tackle the Missing Homework Problem

If you've ever received a dreaded note from the teacher about missing homework, you know how frustrating it can be. But imagine how your child feels when the teacher asks for their homework, and they have to shrug their shoulders because they have no idea where it is. To prevent this, make packing up for school part of the nightly routine, just like brushing teeth or putting on pajamas.

3. Introduce a Visual Checklist

A great way to help your child stay organized is by creating a visual checklist. Each child can have their own whiteboard, or you can use one large whiteboard for the whole family. The checklist should include simple prompts like:

• Is my homework done?

• Is my homework in my knapsack?

• Are my snacks packed and in my lunchbox?

• Do I know what I’m taking for lunch tomorrow, and have I told my parent?

• Is my knapsack in the designated spot?

• Have I set out my clothes for tomorrow?

This system not only helps keep your child organized but also introduces them to tools that support their executive functioning skills. Checking off tasks gives them a sense of accomplishment and ensures that mornings run more smoothly (fingers crossed!).

4. Don’t Forget the Incentives

Now, let’s talk about incentives. Some parents might think rewards are only for little kids, but I encourage incentives for all ages, even adults. Whether it’s a trip for pizza, an ice cream treat, a visit to the Dollar Store, or some quality one-on-one time together, incentives should be something your child truly looks forward to. Let your child help decide what the reward will be, so they feel invested in the process.

As summer winds down, take these steps to prepare for the school year ahead. By implementing these strategies now, you'll help your child transition back to school with confidence and ease. And remember, the more structured the routine, the more success your child with ADHD is likely to experience. Here’s to a smooth and successful school year!