Secrets to Leaving the House on Time in the Morning
EEK…School Stress!
August 24, 2022
Strategies in Action
September 14, 2022
Getting the family out of the house, on time, with everything needed for the day, depends on key decisions and actions. How the day begins impacts our attitude for the rest of the day. Here are some secrets for success!
Secret #1 Reduce the number of decisions in the morning.
AT NIGHT:
- Get a complete set of clothes out and ready.
- Backpack, keys, phone, gym clothes, soccer cleats, violin ready in one place (Blast Off site).
- Decide what is for breakfast.
- Decide lunch arrangements for tomorrow. Pack lunch if that is the option.
- Look at tomorrow’s schedule for transportation changes.
Secret #2 Set the morning schedule with the student.
- When must they be out the door?
- Hygiene routine for the morning (shower? Brush teeth, comb hair and wash face).
- What time do they need to get up to accomplish their routine?
Secret #3 Reduce Distractors in The Morning
- Student dresses in the bathroom, parent’s room, or their room – which is best?
- No TV, streaming or videos while dressing or eating.
- Externalize cues – use a timer or checklist to follow the routine.
Secret #4 – Have an incentive to get out of the house on time.
- What is the reward for the family?
- Pick the music for the ride to school.
- Prize from the prize box.
- Coupon for an ice cream, bike ride, time at the park.
REMEMBER: Good habits take time to develop. Don’t Give Up!
