Post Holiday Routine Recovery

Jan 7

As families settle back into daily routines after holiday break, it’s common for children to feel more tired, hungry, or irritable than usual. After nearly two weeks of slower mornings, late bedtimes, and lots of downtime, returning to structured schedules can feel like a big shift for little bodies and brains.

This behavior isn’t a setback—it’s a normal response to change!

Here are a few simple ways to support your child during this transition:

Lighten the schedule when possible by removing unnecessary activities or commitments.
Prioritize sleep with earlier bedtimes to help bodies reset.
Build in decompression time after school with quiet play, outdoor time, or connection without expectations.
Limit questions right after school and focus on presence and reassurance instead.
Offer extra grace and patience, remembering that big emotions often come from exhaustion.
Keep meals and snacks predictable to support energy and regulation.
Plan something fun at the end of the week, like a family movie or pizza night, to reconnect and decompress together.

With a little extra support, consistency, and understanding, children will settle back into routines and feel grounded again. Transitions take time and your calm, caring presence makes all the difference!