By Shannon at the Southern Schoolhouse
10 Simple Routines to Continue During the Summer
As a mom of three, two grown and one who thinks she is, I’ve learned that life looks a lot different during the school year than it does in the summer. We tend to stay up later, routines shift, eating habits change and so does learning. Summer is a time to rest, but a few light, intentional routines now can make August feel way less chaotic. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or both, these simple resets can help ease the transition from summer mode to school-ready.
For Families:
The One-Hour Wind-Down:
After the first few weeks of summer, start moving bedtime back by 10–15 minutes each week (depending on the age) to ease the back-to-school adjustment.
15-Minute Daily Reading Time:
Keep it light and let kids choose some favorites such as graphic novels, joke books, even cookbooks count!
The “Pick 3” Summer Challenge
Each week, have your child pick 3 easy goals like start a project, help make lunch or organize a drawer. It builds independence without pressure.
Keep One or Two Solid Routines
While summer should feel relaxed, keeping just one or two routines, like a set wake-up time, a morning chore, or a consistent bedtime routine.
Tech Timeout Time:
Try a consistent “no screens” window each day, not as a punishment, but as a chance for board games, puzzles, or just boredom (which inspires creativity!).
For Teachers:
Digital Declutter:
This is something I don’t have time for during the year so choose one day to clean up desktop files, emails, and even my house.
Classroom Wishlist Prep:
Start a private or shareable wishlist of ideas for next year, classroom setup, new books, or supplies you loved.
Professional Inspiration Time:
Read one article or book each month that sparks joy, not guilt. Bonus if it’s totally unrelated to education.
Self-Care Check-In:
List three non-negotiables for your well-being this summer (walks, naps, hobbies, etc.) and post them somewhere visible.
Plan One Thing for August You’ll Look Forward To:
Schedule lunch with a teacher friend, go on a short trip, or plan your first-day outfit.
These are just suggestions of things I found helpful during the summer, especially when my kids were younger. It definitely gets trickier once they’re in high school, juggling jobs, late-night movies, and lots of time with friends. Stay tuned for an upcoming article from Joy on how she navigates summer with a full house of kids ranging from ages 11 to 22!
