Article by Stephanie Hobby 

As the season of water slides and summer fun winds down, getting a good start to the new school year begins with a solid routine. Miles Avenue Elementary School Counselor Kirstie Thomas says a few changes this month can set your family up for success. 

Sleep is key. Two weeks before the first day, start easing into your school-year bedtime schedule. After dinner, kids should do their hygiene routine, wind down with a quiet activity like reading, and then get to bed. 

"That sleep routine makes such a huge difference on them being able to come and be regulated, focused, and all of those things," Thomas said. Many people don't realize just how much sleep kids need: elementary students need 10 to 13 hours a night, a number that gradually tapers to 8 to 10 hours for a high schooler. 

Set expectations early. Start talking early and often about what children can expect, and what's expected of them during school days. For younger kids, walk them through what a school day will look like. For older kids with years of school behind them, ask about any concerns they might have. 

Make lunchtime manageable. This matters most for younger children, but it applies to anyone. Most schools give students only 15 to 20 minutes to eat, so talk to your kids about staying focused on eating and saving the socializing for later. If your child packs a lunch, make sure they can open water bottles and food containers on their own so they don't lose time asking for help. Thomas even suggests timing lunch at home so kids understand how to make the most of their limited window. 

Schedule downtime. With so many great options for kids' activities these days, it's tempting to sign up for everything. Resist it. Downtime matters, so help your child pick activities and sports strategically. 

"Their brains are still developing," Thomas said, explaining that kids who are constantly on the go never get the chance to learn how to sit still or relax. "They're always going to feel like they have to be doing something." Thomas recommends no more than one sport and one club at a time, and encourages families not to be afraid to change things up at the end of a season or, for older kids, at the semester. Kids need rest days, and as the parent, you can help by scheduling that time and giving them options for how to spend it. 

Extra support is available. If your child needs an extra boost, counseling can be a great option. As a school counselor, Thomas is well-versed in 504 plans and district policies, and she also runs a private counseling practice after school hours. Find her on Facebook at MT Counseling - Kirstie Thomas M.Ed, LCPC. 

Originally printed in the August 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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