How to Crush Post-Summer Blues: Reclaim Your School Routine

As a mom of three, I always look forward to summer…long days, messy popsicle smiles, and a schedule that feels just a bit looser. But when August (back to school) rolls into September, I often find myself struggling with what I call the post-summer blues. 

It’s that mix of exhaustion, anxiety, and a hint of sadness as we trade swimsuits for school supplies and lazy mornings for rushed routines. 

If you’re feeling it too, you’re not alone! I’m here to share some of the best back-to-school routine tips that have helped me (and my family) find our footing again.

The Emotional Toll of Transition

Let’s start with the emotional part, because let’s be honest, it’s real! After months of bonding, late-night movies, and relaxed mornings, it can be hard to let go of that freedom. For moms, this transition often means juggling more…more reminders, more prep, more pickups and drop-offs.

And while we’re busy focusing on lunch boxes and supply lists, it’s easy to forget that our own emotional needs matter too. Acknowledge the shift. Give yourself grace. 

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Easing Back into a School Routine

The key to easing post-summer burnout is not doing everything at once. I used to believe I had to transform our entire routine overnight, but that only led to frustration. Now, I take a gradual approach:

Start the Sleep Schedule Early

One week before school starts, we begin inching bedtime back by 15 minutes each night. It helps the kids (and me!) reset our internal clocks and avoids that day-one shock of an early alarm.

Create a Visual Morning Routine

For younger kids, a visual chart with pictures of each task like brushing teeth, getting dressed, packing your backpack, works wonders.

 It helps them feel in control and reduces how often I have to repeat myself.

Prep the Night or weekend Before

This has been a game-changer in our home. Every night or weekend, (because let’s face it, life starts life-ing LOL), we lay out clothes, pack lunches, and check backpacks. 

It saves so much time and reduces that chaotic “where are your shoes?!” energy in the morning.

Designate Drop Zones

Consider having a hook for backpacks, a bin for shoes, and a tray for permission slips, etc. These small systems add structure and make mornings smoother.

Nurturing Mom During the Transition

Let’s talk about us for a minute. Moms often forget to take care of themselves during transitions. I’ve been guilty of burning the candle at both ends like late nights prepping, early mornings bustling. 

But prioritizing our well-being is vital, especially when routines ramp up.

Try This:

Set aside 10 minutes

 Every morning for a quiet cup of tea or coffee or a short journal entry.

Schedule “me-time”

During the week, even if it’s a solo grocery run or a walk around the block.

Practice affirmations 

that reminds you you’re doing enough, even when the routine isn’t perfect.

Rebuilding Family Routines

The back-to-school season is also a great time to revisit your family’s rhythms. After a loose summer schedule, routines can actually provide comfort and clarity.

Family Calendar Reset

Consider gathering around the kitchen table to map out your school-year calendar—activities, sports, family nights. Seeing it laid out can help everyone feel more organized and involved.

Reinstate Dinner Check-Ins

Dinner is our daily touchpoint. Try going around and sharing your highs and lows for the day. It can help keep you connected, even during busy weeks.

Weekend Prep Sessions

We spend Sunday evenings prepping snacks, restocking school supplies, and writing out the weekly schedule. It’s become a simple ritual that makes Mondays less daunting.

Supporting Your Kids’ Emotional Needs

Back-to-school anxiety doesn’t just affect us, it shows up in our kids too!  From nervous 3rd graders to tweens navigating social pressures, transitions can bring big feelings.

Here’s what’s worked for us:

Validate their emotions

“It’s okay to miss summer. I do too.”

Create space for them to talk

Sometimes this means a quiet car ride or bedtime chat.

Offer a transition object

A small keychain or note in their backpack reminds them we’re still connected.

Finding the Joy in Structure

I thoroughly  appreciate the joy of structure. But over time, I realized that routines don’t have to be rigid—they can be comforting.

 There’s something satisfying about checking off a to-do list or watching your child blossom in a new school year.

Keep it fun by adding little surprises: a sweet note in the lunchbox, a funny playlist in the car, or a spontaneous stop for after-school ice cream.

These tiny moments help make the routine feel less like a grind and more like a rhythm we’re all dancing to—together.

When Mom Burnout Hits

Let’s be real—there are still days when I’m running on empty. If that’s where you are, don’t push through in silence.

Here’s what helps me reset:

Ask for help:

Tag your partner in, delegate to older kids, or lean on a friend.

Unplug: 

Even 30 minutes away from screens can be grounding.

Do one thing just for you

Whether it’s painting your nails or starting that book you’ve been meaning to read.

Final Thoughts: Give Yourself Grace

Getting back into the school routine is a journey, not a single event. There will be late arrivals, forgotten lunches, and emotional goodbyes. 

But there will also be laughter, growth, and new memories waiting just around the corner.

So to every mom riding the rollercoaster of back-to-school season, give yourself grace. Embrace the messy. Celebrate the small wins. And know that you’re not alone in navigating these transitions.

We’ve got this. 💪