Embracing a New School Term: Finding Balance Amidst the Hustle

As the new school term begins, schedules ramp up, making life busier for parents and children. Take this article as permission to rest! Keep an eye on how your children are adjusting, and if you notice frequent post-school meltdowns, it might be time to scale back on activities.

Here are some tips to make late afternoons more peaceful when your child is exhausted from school:

Anticipate Post-School Meltdowns
It's normal for children to hold it together at school and then unravel once they're home. They spend all day following rules and engaging in social interactions, so they need a safe space to release that built-up tension.

Schedule Downtime
School days are exciting but also tiring, and kids need time to rest. If you notice a pattern of after-school meltdowns, try to clear their schedule in the afternoons and evenings. Postpone playdates, skip errands, and head straight home to let your child unwind.

Prepare Healthy Snacks
Your child might not eat enough at school. Drinking and eating are social in nature, and children just tend to snack until they are comfortable. Be ready for them to be "hangry" (hungry and angry) when they get home. Have a nutrient-dense snack ready to tide them over until dinner.

Don't Take It Personally
It's natural to want to hug your children and hear about their day when you pick them up from school. However, they might be too tired to share much. Remember, it's not about you. Give them space, time to rest, and some food.

Engage in Sensory Play
Draw a bath with lots of bubbles and their favourite bath toys. Or put on some calm music and let them relax with kinetic sand or any other sensory play. They will love it, and it will help them decompress.

Book Recommendation
One favourite book in our house (especially for junior primary school children) is "Today We Have No Plans" by Jane Godwin and illustrated by Anna Walker. This delightful picture book explores the busy lives of families and the joy of a slower day filled with dreams and play. You can also check it out at local libraries.
More information can be found:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z863cxs