It’s important to have effective morning routines so children get off to school without stress. Older children can help plan their routines.

Here are some specific ideas for minimizing morning madness on school days:

• Prepare the night before. Make lunch, pack backpacks, and set out clothes.
• Set up a launching pad—a place near the door for children’s backpacks, coats, shoes, hats and gloves so no time is wasted looking for these items.
• Wake up at least half an hour before the kids. Shower, get dressed, have your coffee/breakfast, and be ready!
• Have a reliable wake up system for the kids. An alarm clock or clock radio is good.
• Stagger wake up times for the kids. Pre-teen and teenagers usually need more time to shower and groom.
• Younger kids should bathe the night before to reduce bathroom congestion.
• Have kids choose what they are wearing the night before. Limit choices and make sure everything is neat and clean.
• Don’t rush the children! Make sure there is enough time to wash, dress, eat breakfast, comb hair and brush teeth. Start earlier if you need to.
• Avoid turning on the TV. Kids can waste a lot of time watching TV or playing. These activities should be permitted only if they are completely ready for school.
• Don’t skip breakfast! Hungry kids can’t concentrate in school.
• Remind kids to use the bathroom just before leaving for school. Lots of kids don’t like to use the school bathroom.
• Wish the kids a great day. Give them each a hug!