Overview
- Experts, speaking in late August, recommend starting gradual routine changes about one to two weeks before classes with practical steps such as advancing wake time by roughly 15 minutes every two to three days.
- Restore sleep hygiene by aiming for about 10–13 hours for preschoolers and 9–11 hours for 6–12‑year‑olds, cut evening screen time, and keep a steady breakfast and meal schedule to support attention and mood.
- Keep drop-offs brief, affectionate and predictable because short, consistent goodbyes build security while long farewells, guilt language or repeatedly removing a crying child undermine trust.
- Allow two to four weeks for preschool adaptation but seek professional help if intense resistance, repeated physical complaints, regression or severe withdrawal persist for four to six weeks.
- Children with ASD, ADHD or learning needs should get earlier, individualized preparation—visual calendars, visits and tailored supports—and families should expect more routine illnesses at return so they keep vaccinations, hand washing and shared‑item rules up to date.