Easing Back Into a Routine: How to Gently Transition After Summer

Getting back into a sleep routine after summer

I can’t believe summer is almost over! It’s honestly such a bittersweet moment for me.

We did so much these past few months — traveled to Mexico for a long visit, had endless pool days, library adventures, ice cream runs (and iced coffee for me, obviously), crafts at home... and yes, the kids got bored more times than I can count (which I kept reminding myself is actually a good thing). We made core memories I know we’ll always treasure.

But I won’t lie — I’m also a little relieved.

It was hard trying to keep up with work while the kids were home needing me so much. Sure, they learned a lot about playing independently (yay!), but I still felt a twinge of guilt every time I was working and they were bored or just craving my attention.

So now, I’m welcoming the return of structure and routine — not just for them, but for me. I’m looking forward to having a little more time to focus on my business and even carve out some moments for myself.

And with more routine comes... a schedule! 🎉

To be fair, this transition isn’t too hard in my home. My kids don’t do well with late nights — they can handle maybe two or three in a row, but then they crash hard and need their routine back. Plus, no matter what time she goes to bed, my 8-year-old still wakes up at 6 AM. So usually, once we’re home, we get right back into our usual rhythm.

Also — I really value my evenings. If we’re not doing something special as a family, I like having that wind-down time with my partner (or just by myself) at the end of the day. So I need the kids to be on their schedule.

But I know for many families, the idea of getting back on track can feel overwhelming. Bedtimes have drifted later and later, and mornings have gotten slower and sleepier... and now school is around the corner and you’re wondering: How on earth are we going to wake up on time?!

Don’t panic. I’ve got you! Here are some simple tips to ease your family back into a more predictable routine:

1. Start Gradually

If your toddler or older child is staying up super late, you don’t need to overhaul everything in one night. Instead, start by shifting bedtime earlier in 30-minute increments every few days. The same goes for wake-up times — gradually bring them earlier to help the body adjust naturally.

Not sure what is appropiate for your kids: take quick look at the following resource from the National Sleep Foundation.

2. Start in the Morning

This part is key: start with the wake-up time. Waking your child up just 30 minutes earlier in the morning will help them build enough sleep pressure to fall asleep earlier at night. This works for babies, toddlers, and big kids.

✨ Bonus tip: If your baby or toddler still naps during the day, make sure to adjust nap times too! A late afternoon nap can easily push bedtime back, so keep an eye on your schedule.

3. Re-establish the Bedtime Routine

If your routine has gotten a little lax this summer (it happens!), now is a great time to bring it back. You know the drill:Go to the bedroom, dim the lights, change the diaper or offer the last feeding of the day, read a book, and lights out.

For older kids, encourage quiet time in their room — reading or playing a low-energy game (non-screen-based!) — at least 30 minutes before lights out. It helps their bodies wind down and signals that bedtime is coming.

The best part? You don’t need to wait until the night before school starts to make these changes. You can start today — gently, gradually — and make the transition smoother for everyone.

Let’s be honest: returning to routines can feel like a lot. But it also brings a sense of calm, predictability, and even freedom (yes, freedom!) for parents and kids alike.

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You've got this 💛