Start Adjusting Before School Begins
If your child’s summer schedule is very different from their fall schedule, begin making small changes before the first day.
Gradually adjust:
- Bedtime
- Wake-up time
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Quiet time
- Morning routines
Small changes are often easier for young children to manage than one dramatic change.
Bring Back a Predictable Morning Routine
A predictable morning can help children feel secure.
For example:
Wake up → Bathroom → Get dressed → Breakfast → Brush teeth → Shoes → Backpack → School
Keep the order consistent whenever possible.
Eventually, your child will begin to move through the routine with less prompting.
Reintroduce Quiet Time
Even if your child no longer naps, quiet time can be valuable.
Try setting aside time for:
- Books
- Puzzles
- Drawing
- Quiet music
- Independent play
- Resting
This gives children time to recharge after a busy morning.
Practice School Skills
Fall is a great time to rebuild independence.
Practice:
“Can you put your shoes on?”
“Where does your backpack go?”
“Can you put your cup in the sink?”
These small responsibilities help children feel capable.
Don't Fill Every Afternoon
A new school routine requires energy.
Try not to schedule too many activities during the first few weeks.
Your preschooler may need extra time to relax, reconnect with family, and process their day.
Expect Some Big Feelings
You might see more:
- Tantrums
- Clinginess
- Irritability
- Crying
- Bedtime resistance
- “I don't want to go!”
These behaviors can be part of the adjustment process.
Respond with patience and reassurance.
“You’re having a hard time because things are changing. I’m here to help.”
Make Fall Something to Look Forward To
Talk about the positive parts of returning to school:
“You’ll get to see your teacher.”
“You’ll get to sing your favorite songs.”
“You’ll get to play with your friends.”
“I can’t wait to hear about your day.”
This helps children begin to associate fall with new experiences and opportunities.
Summer is often a time of flexibility.
Bedtimes may be later. Mornings may be slower. Meals may happen at different times. Families may spend more time traveling, playing outside, or enjoying spontaneous adventures.
Then fall arrives.
Suddenly, everyone needs to wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, and leave the house on schedule.
For preschoolers, this transition can feel surprisingly difficult.
The good news is that families can make the shift easier by gradually rebuilding routines and helping children know what to expect.
A New Season Is a New Beginning
Interested in learning more about preschool in Renton, WA? Contact Do Re Mi Academy to schedule a tour.
The transition from summer to fall doesn’t have to happen perfectly.
Give your child time.
With consistent routines, supportive adults, and plenty of connection, children gradually develop confidence in their new rhythm.
At Do Re Mi Academy in Renton, our music immersion preschool provides a nurturing environment where children can learn, move, create, and grow together.
Your Child … Developing Beautifully
