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Back to School: A Morning Routine, Minus the Stress “Come on, Let’s get going … you're going to be late! I don't know where your shoes are. What do you mean you forgot to do your homework? You still haven’t eaten breakfast! Just grab something! I’m out the door…bye!” Hopefully your morning conversations with the kids are nothing like this. If they are, it's not too late to turn it all around. If you want a stress free morning routine, you have to start the night before with a smooth bedtime routine. Remember, consistency is key in any routine. Below are some ideas for a stress free morning routine: • Yelling is out. Raising your voice will only make matters worse, so stay calm and focused. • Lights out early. It’ll make for a more pleasant morning for everyone. • Shower and bathe at night. The less there is to do in the morning, the easier the routine will be. • Backpacks should be checked in the evening, homework completed and looked over. This allows for more time to correct and explain. • Pack lunches the night before. • One thing to do at a time. Give one step instructions. • Give each instruction only once. Repeated instructions allow kids to think that the first time is really just a warning and more time will be given. • There need to be consequences. If your child/children aren’t ready by 8:00, what is going to happen? Stick to the consequences. If Johnny doesn’t have his shoes on, you’re leaving and he can put his shoes on in the car. They’ll get that you mean business…it’ll only take a few times…maybe even just once. Parents set the morning routine. Make sure you stick to it and your morning will run smoothly every time.