The final weeks of summer are the perfect time to help your family transition back into school routines. A little planning now can make busy mornings, homework, after-school activities, and work commitments much less stressful.

Here are four simple habits to help your family start the school year strong:

Plan together. Spend 15 minutes each Sunday reviewing the week’s schedule. Knowing what’s ahead reduces last-minute stress, helps everyone stay organized, and gives children a chance to prepare for upcoming responsibilities.

Prep healthy meals. Wash and chop fruits and vegetables, prepare healthy snacks, cook a whole grain, and encourage children to pack their lunches the night before. A little meal preparation each weekend makes nutritious choices easier and reduces the temptation to rely on fast food during busy evenings.

Reset sleep schedules. Many children stay up much later during the summer, making the first week of school especially challenging. Begin moving bedtime earlier by 15–30 minutes every few days before school starts. Adequate sleep supports growth, learning, attention, emotional regulation, and can even help reduce anxiety.

Protect family time. As calendars quickly fill, intentionally schedule one to two hours each week for family dinners, walks, or game nights. These moments strengthen relationships, reduce screen time, and provide opportunities to reconnect.

Small, consistent habits can make a big difference in creating a healthier, less stressful school year. At Salveo Direct Care, we’re committed to helping families build healthy routines that support lifelong wellness—one small step at a time.

– Sharvari Parghi, M.D.