1. Ease Back Into Routines: It can be so relaxing to pause daily routines during the summer holidays, and the thought of getting back into routine can feel daunting. But starting simple and early (1-2 weeks before school or work starts) can be helpful in preparation for getting back into full swing come the end of January. Creating a simple morning and evening rhythm is a great way to start. For example, aim for consistent dinner times, bedtime routines, or morning wake-up and breakfast times. Consider where you can add regulating sensory input, like breathing before bed and/or a quick movement sequence using the yoga cards before breakfast.
2. Keep Up the Connection: It can be exciting and nerve-wracking for kids to return to school and for adults to return to work in the new year. This is why it’s more important than ever to maintain a connection with our kids and the important humans in our lives. Connection creates the stable base we need to regulate our nervous system. Remember that connecting with kids doesn’t have to come in the form of the best setup for sensory play activities or extravagant activities. Connection thrives with authenticity and the quality of the time spent together, not the quantity. You can try our Connection Journal, with activities designed to focus on the quality of the time spent and being joyful together, so connection-building doesn’t have to feel hard.
3. Don’t Forget About Their (and Your) Body Budget: When routines change, it can be much harder to keep track of a child’s body budget. That is, making sure they are getting enough ‘deposits’ of regulating input like movement, hugs, connection, sleep, etc., as well as avoiding withdrawals—things that lead to dysregulation, such as too much noise, changes in routine, late nights, etc. In the week before school returns, consciously add in more regulating ‘deposits’ into their day. You could do a few minutes of breathing together, a yoga game from the Ready for Yoga program, daily connection check-ins using the Connection Journal, and ensuring they are getting enough sleep! And don’t forget a as a parent, carer or someone who works with kids, you body budget it just as important. Read our blog here on tips How to Keep Your Body Budget in Balance: A Guide for Parents, Educator – Regulated and Ready