School’s Back! And So Is the Morning Drama.

We all love the fresh smell of a new beginning, the thrill of sharpened pencils, and the excitement of kids heading off to school or playgroup… but let’s be real: the morning drama is officially back and here to stay. Whether you’re waving off a toddler clutching a stuffed bunny or negotiating sock choices with a 7-year-old, here are some survival tips to make mornings (slightly) smoother.

For the Little Ones: Hugs, Routines & Tiny Goodbyes

Those first goodbyes at playgroup or preschool can feel HUGE for tiny hearts (and let’s be honest, for yours too).

Make the goodbye a ritual.
A hug, two kisses, wave at the school window in the same order, every day. Kids love predictability.

Label everything.
Shoes, water bottles, comfort items.. if it can walk away, it probably will. Stickers help kids recognize their things too.

Send a familiar object.
A scarf that smells like you or a small toy can ease separation anxiety.

Practice school in play.
Pack teddy’s backpack, “drop off” the dolls, and role-play pick-up. It helps kids rehearse the routine.

‍This too shall pass. Tears are (almost) inevitable, so pack extra patience, give all the gentle talks, and remind your child (and yourself!) that goodbyes grow into brave hellos.

For the Big Kids: The Real Morning Challenge 

You’d think older kids would mean calmer mornings… spoiler: nope. Here’s how to dodge daily chaos:

Set up a launch pad.
Shoes, bags, jackets, all in one spot by the door. Goodbye scavenger hunts.

Do it the night before.
Clothes out, snacks packed, breakfast table set. Future-you will thank you.

Let them help.
Choosing snacks, packing bags, even setting alarms = ownership (and fewer “But I don’t want to!” moments).

Visual routine chart.
Icons of toothbrushes, cereal bowls, pants stick it on the fridge. Kids follow, you breathe.

Keep breakfast simple.
Banana + toast + yogurt. Done. Save Pinterest-level meals for weekends.

Make a weekly menu.
Plan breakfast + snacks every Sunday. Kids get excited, and you avoid the dreaded “But I don’t want THAT.”

Tiny Note, Big Impact 

Pop a doodle, a silly joke, or a quick “I love you” in their lunchbox. Big kids read it, little ones just smile at the scribble. Either way, you win Best Parent of the Morning.

So yes, the morning madness is real, but with a few tricks, it becomes less of a battlefield and more of a rhythm. And hey, at least you get your coffee hot… once the kids are out.

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