Tips for a smooth back-to-school morning routine

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No matter what age they are, some kids just need some help getting themselves ready and out to school on time.

As parents prepare their children to return to school next week (or as a reminder for those who already have last week), Disney's Family Fun magazine has a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Prepare kids for the upcoming change, either with a verbal description of what you expect to happen in the morning (up at 7, dressed by 7:30, bags packed by 8), or with picture cues. Practice the morning routine a few times, too.
2. Start getting to bed a bit earlier.
3. Parents, be sure you are up and ready before the kids get up to help things go as smooth as possible.
4. Provide reminders if needed as children go through their morning routine ("Don't forget to brush your teeth!").
5. State the obvious. Point out what has been done, and what needs to happen next in order to keep everyone moving.
6. Try to avoid yelling. Sending a child off to school after a screaming match just isn't the best way for him or her to start the instructional day.
7. Once the morning routine has been well established, add a task such as making the bed or throwing dirty clothes in the hamper.

Remember, provide structure, clear expectations, and some positive reinforcement to make the morning routine an easy one! Enjoy your first day back to school!