Dear Franklin Families,
As the school year progresses, establishing consistent routines at home becomes one of the most impactful ways to support your child’s academic and emotional well-being. Routines provide structure, predictability, and stability—all of which are essential for helping students focus, manage their time effectively, and develop lifelong habits of responsibility. Here’s how you can establish beneficial routines and why they matter for your child's success.
Morning Routine: Start the Day on the Right Foot
A smooth morning sets the tone for a productive day at school. Encourage your child to prepare their school materials, lay out their clothes, and pack their lunch the night before. This minimizes last-minute scrambling, reduces stress, and helps your child feel organized and confident as they head to class. A consistent wake-up time and breakfast routine also ensure that they start the day energized and focused.
Tip: Set aside 10 minutes each evening to help your child get everything ready for the next day. This small step can make a huge difference in how their morning goes!
After-School Routine: Balancing Study Skills/Homework and Downtime
After a long day of school, students need time to recharge, but it's also essential to keep homework and studying on the agenda. Establish a regular after-school routine that balances free time with academic responsibilities. Designate a quiet space for studying and make sure your child knows what time is reserved for homework and what time is available for relaxation or extracurricular activities.
Tip: Encourage your child to use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and after-school commitments. This fosters independence and time management skills.
Evening Routine: Rest and Recharge
An evening routine that promotes relaxation is crucial for your child’s emotional well-being and physical health. A set bedtime helps ensure that they get enough sleep to recharge and be ready for the next day. Limiting screen time before bed, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness are great ways to unwind and set your child up for a good night’s sleep.
Tip: Aim for a consistent bedtime routine that begins at the same time each night, which can include activities like brushing teeth, reading, or journaling to help them wind down.
The Impact on Academic Performance
Establishing routines at home directly impacts your child's academic success. When students follow a predictable schedule, they tend to manage their time better, complete homework more efficiently, and develop stronger study habits. This structure not only leads to improved grades but also helps them feel more in control of their responsibilities.
Tip: Review your child’s school calendar regularly to ensure they’re on top of assignments, projects, and tests. Praise their efforts to stick to the routine, as positive reinforcement can help cement these good habits.
Extra Tip: Create the habit of checking PowerSchool with your child at least once a week.
Building Lifelong Habits
Routines don’t just benefit students in the short term; they help build skills that will serve them throughout their academic career and beyond. Time management, self-discipline, and prioritization are all essential skills that students will need in college and in their future careers.
In summary, by establishing structured routines at home, you’re setting your child up for both academic success and personal growth. Encourage them to take ownership of their routines, and support them in finding a balance between schoolwork and personal time. With the right structure, students can flourish academically while also developing critical life skills.
Resources for Parents
If you're looking for more tips or resources on creating effective routines, feel free to reach out to our school counselors. We’re here to support your child’s journey toward success!
Sergio Delgado / Your proud principal
