Whenever we start a new adventure, like middle school, we inevitably will be learning new skills.
Routines
The same way we would practice a skill like reading, riding a bike, or a new language, we can practice setting good routines to set ourselves up for success.
A routine is a repeated order of activities we regularly follow.
Routines can provide structure, help with time management, and even make us more productive and efficient.
Routines can also offer comfort, stability, and a sense of control, which can decrease stress and anxiety.
Morning Routines
These are how we set the tone for our day! By doing things like:
Waking up at a the same time each morning
Taking time for a mindful moment
Making your bed
Doing a preferred non-tech activity like:
reading
drawing
sitting with a pet
listening to music
exercising
Having a nutritious breakfast
We are setting our brains and bodies up for starting the day off strong.
Evening Routines
These are the things that help us to wind down our brain, and set ourselves up for the next day. These routines might include things like:
Packing all or part of a lunch/snack ahead of time
Checking your planner to see what you need to take tomorrow
Checking your homework is done and in your back pack
Picking out your clothes before bed
Putting your backpack by the door
Taking a shower or bath at night instead of in the morning
Setting your morning alarm
Technology off and away and least 30 minutes before bed
Going to bed at an appropriate time
These things can also help you get a little extra sleep!
Organization
When we are organized, our brains are ready to learn and thrive.
Having a calm organized brain helps our bodies to produce less cortisol. Cortisol is the chemical released by our brain that causes us to feel stress and anxiety.
The same way we would practice a skill like reading, riding a bike, or a new language, we can practice setting good routines to set ourselves up for success.
Great ways to stay organized are:
Using a planner.
Using a checklist or a to-do list.
Setting new routine or adjusting our current routines.