How to Reset Routines After Winter Break
How to Reset Routines After Winter Break (Without the Stress)
Why This Time of Year Can Be Tough
Returning from winter break can be overwhelming for many children—but especially for those with disabilities, sensory differences, or learning challenges. The sudden switch from relaxed days at home to early wake-ups, crowded classrooms, and structured learning can cause dysregulation, anxiety, and even behavioral regression.
As a parent, you may notice your child struggling with:
Morning transitions and sleep disruption
Increased meltdowns or shutdowns
Trouble focusing or following directions
Heightened anxiety or clinginess
The good news? A gentle, flexible routine reset can help your child feel safe, supported, and ready to re-engage—without creating unnecessary pressure on you.
5 Practical Tips to Rebuild Routine (Gently!)
1. Start with the Body: Sleep & Sensory Reset
Before jumping into academic expectations, focus on helping your child’s body adjust:
Reintroduce bedtime routines a few days before school starts
Use calming sensory tools (weighted blankets, fidgets, or sound machines)
Keep mornings predictable and quiet to avoid overstimulation
2. Visual Schedules & Checklists
Children with executive function challenges often benefit from structure they can see and touch.
Use simple visual schedules (printed or drawn) for morning and evening routines
Let your child check off steps like brushing teeth or packing their bag—this builds independence and reduces power struggles
3. Review What to Expect at School
Talk through:
What the classroom will look like
Which staff will be there
What activities might happen the first few days
If your child has a communication device or social story binder, update it with fresh visuals about school re-entry.
4. Ease In, Don’t Jump In
The first week back isn’t the time to enforce perfection.
Focus on connection over compliance
Praise small wins like getting dressed, attending class, or asking for help
Remember that fatigue and overstimulation are real—even if they aren’t verbalized
5. Communicate With the School Team
Reach out to your child’s teacher or case manager during the first week back:
Ask how transitions are going
Share any helpful home strategies
Flag any regression, sensory overload, or behavior shifts you're seeing
How This Ties Into IEP & 504 Support
Remember: if your child struggles significantly with transitions, it may warrant:
Updated accommodations (like a modified start schedule or transition support)
A new Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
Counseling or social skills supports
Goal adjustments in the IEP to reflect seasonal challenges
💬 Final Thoughts
There’s no “perfect” way to jump back into routines—but by being proactive, compassionate, and collaborative, you help your child feel anchored. And when they feel safe, learning can happen again.
You’re not behind—you’re rebuilding. One day at a time.
Need help reviewing your child's IEP or preparing for mid-year changes?
📅 Book a consultation with Whole Child Advocacy
