MSU Extension Child & Family Development

It’s hard to believe, but most of Michigan’s school-age children are already wrapping up their summer break. As the last few weeks of vacation stretch out ahead, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for a smooth transition back to school.

Here are some helpful strategies from Michigan State University Extension to support a successful start to the school year:

Reestablish bedtimes

Summer tends to throw routines out the window. As the long, lazy days pass, bedtimes shift later and mornings start slowly. Now is the time to reintroduce a consistent sleep schedule.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, elementary-aged children should get 9-12 hours of sleep per night. Think about what time your child needs to wake up for school. Then, count backward to determine a realistic bedtime that allows enough rest and a low-stress morning routine.

Chronic sleep deprivation in children has been linked to behavioral issues, irritability, poor concentration, obesity, headaches and even depression. On the other hand, well-rested children perform better academically, have improved memory and enjoy stronger immune systems.

Start adjusting your family’s sleep schedule two to three weeks before school starts. Shift bedtimes earlier and wake children gradually closer to their school-year routine. Limit screen time before bed, encourage physical activity during the day, and create bedrooms that support restful sleep—quiet, dark and free from electronics.

Plan ahead for school needs

Although many Michigan schools resume after Labor Day, August is prime time for back-to-school preparation. Take advantage of sales and promotions and begin checking what your child may need: new clothes, properly sized shoes, a backpack that fits or specific school supplies.

If your budget is tight, search for local backpack drives or community donation events. In many areas, these events will provide free school supplies, backpacks and even clothing or food. If you're able, consider buying extra school supplies to donate. A well-stocked backpack helps every child return to school feeling confident and prepared.

Make the process collaborative. Clean out closets together and organize what’s still usable. Let your child help choose their school supplies—it builds ownership and enthusiasm for the year ahead!

Avoid calendar chaos

A successful school year often hinges on a well-organized family schedule. As you sign up for fall activities, sports, clubs and lessons, keep a family calendar in mind.

Choose a central location for your household calendar, whether digital or paper, and ensure everyone can access it. Many schools release calendars in advance; now’s the time to note key dates like back-to-school nights, early dismissals, vacation days and parent-teacher conferences.

Avoid overbooking the week before school starts. Set aside time for kids to rest, recharge and mentally prepare for the new routine. The first few weeks of school require emotional and physical energy. Relaxing at home helps children adjust more easily.

Fight morning madness

For many families, mornings are the most chaotic part of the day. The key to calmer mornings is better evenings.

Start by creating a simple evening checklist for kids. For children who cannot yet read, create a photo checklist that walks them through each step. Encourage them to lay out their clothes, find both shoes and pack their bags the night before. Let them help prepare lunches or set out breakfast items to save time in the morning.

Practice makes perfect. In late summer, schedule morning playdates or outings so your child can practice waking up, getting dressed and heading out the door on time. These small steps build responsibility and make the school morning routine much smoother when it really counts.

Prepare emotionally

Is your child starting kindergarten or attending a new school? Help ease their anxiety by introducing them to the school environment in advance. Finding out who their teacher is and identifying a friend in their class will help them feel more excited about the transition, build confidence and ease the first-day nerves.

If possible, visit the school playground, attend an open house or back-to-school picnic, and arrange a playdate with a classmate. Walk around the school and school grounds, talk about the routine, and emphasize the fun and excitement of a new year.

Books can help, too. Great options for incoming Kindergarteners include:

• “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn
• “Kindergarten, Here I Come!” by D.J. Steinberg
• “The Night Before Kindergarten” by Natasha Wing
• “The First Day of School” by Mercer Mayer

Though the start of school may still be a few weeks away, preparing early will help your child feel more confident and reduce stress for the whole family. Whether it’s adjusting bedtime routines, clearing out closets, or practicing the morning routine, these small efforts add up to a much smoother start to the year.