Ease school separation anxiety with 12 simple tips, including the hug button and special bracelets. Make the school transition smoother!

Say Goodbye to School Separation Anxiety with These Fun Ideas

Starting school is a big milestone for young kids, but it can also bring a lot of nerves, especially when it comes to saying goodbye to parents and guardians. School separation anxiety is a common challenge for little ones, but with a few thoughtful and creative strategies, you can help your child feel more secure and confident as they head off to school. From wearing matching bracelets to carrying a family photo in their pencil box, these tips are designed to remind your child that they are loved and connected to you, even when you’re apart. Read on for 12 easy and fun ways to ease school separation anxiety and make those goodbyes a little bit easier.. 

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

Supporting Your Child Through School Separation Anxiety

Helping your child navigate school separation anxiety is a journey, and it’s important to remember that every child is different. While these ideas can ease the transition, patience and consistency are key.

Keep the lines of communication open, and reassure your child that it’s okay to feel nervous—these feelings are completely normal. Work closely with their teacher to create a supportive environment, and celebrate the small victories along the way.

With time, love, and understanding, your child will gain the confidence to embrace their school experience and feel secure knowing you’re always there to support them, even when you’re apart.

Simplify mornings with a DIY morning routine chart for kids. Help your child follow steps independently.

Say Goodbye to Morning Chaos with This DIY Routine Chart

Mornings with young kids can feel like a whirlwind, can’t they? Between getting everyone dressed, fed, and out the door on time, it sometimes feels like a small miracle when you finally make it to school or daycare. But what if there was a way to make mornings a bit smoother and more organized? Enter the “morning routine chart.”

A morning routine chart is a visual guide that helps kids know exactly what to do each morning without constant reminders. It can be a game-changer in establishing independence and reducing morning stress. Plus, it’s super fun for kids to follow along! In this post, I’ll show you how to create a DIY morning routine chart that’s perfect for young kids. 

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

Why Use a Morning Routine Chart?

Ever since we started using a morning routine chart, our mornings have been so much smoother. My child loves being able to check off each task, and she’s so proud when she completes everything and is ready for the day! It’s been a game-changer for us.

Here are a few awesome benefits:

• Visual cues for young kids: Kids love pictures, and a chart gives them a clear visual guide of what comes next. No more guessing or constant reminders!
• Helps establish independence: With the chart, kids can follow along and complete tasks on their own. They learn to take responsibility and feel accomplished as they move through their morning routine.
• Reduces morning stress: Knowing what to expect helps everyone stay calm and on track. Less stress for you means a happier start to the day for everyone.

Using a morning routine chart has not only helped my child become more independent but also brought a sense of order and calm to our hectic mornings. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference!

Printable Kid To-Do Chart

We understand that not every parent has the time to create a DIY morning routine chart from scratch. That’s why we’re offering a printable version! This printable chart is perfect for busy parents!

Simply download, print, and follow the easy instructions to set it up. The printable version includes all the same visual cues and task labels, making it just as effective as the DIY version.

Your child can still enjoy the fun and independence of checking off each task as they go, and you get to enjoy a smoother, stress-free morning without spending hours on preparation.

• Scissors
• Velcro stickers
• Glue for pictures
• Tape for securing on wall

• Large piece of cardboard
• Photographs or pictures of your child doing each morning task
• Marker or pen
• Scissors
• Velcro stickers
• Glue for pictures
• Tape for securing on wall

Step 4

Label Tasks: Below each picture in the second row, write out the tasks in chronological order. For example, “make bed,” “brush hair,” “brush teeth,” “get dressed,” “eat breakfast,” “pack bag,” “put shoes on.”

Step 5

Cut Columns to Fold Second Row: Use scissors to cut up the columns, but stop at the end of the picture row. Fold the second row up so it covers the pictures, then write “Done” with a check mark on the back of each flap.

Step  6

Setting Up and Using the Chart: Hang the chart in a place where your child can easily see and reach it. Each morning, your child can fold up the flaps to reveal “Done” as they complete each task. At the end of the day, simply unfold the flaps to reset the chart for the next day.

Step 1

Prepare Your Cardboard: Start with a large piece of cardboard. At the top, write “Morning Routine” in big, bold letters.Attach Velcro: Place Velcro stickers on the cardboard and the back of each folded flap to keep them in place when folded up.

Step 2

Create a Grid: On the cardboard, draw a grid with 2 rows and columns for each task that needs to be completed. In our example, there are 7 tasks, so 7 columns.

Step 3

Add Pictures: In the first row, place the different pictures of your child getting ready in the morning. Glue or tape these pictures in place.

Step 4

Label Tasks: Below each picture in the second row, write out the tasks in chronological order. For example, “make bed,” “brush hair,” “brush teeth,” “get dressed,” “eat breakfast,” “pack bag,” “put shoes on.”

Step 5

Cut Columns to Fold Second Row: Use scissors to cut up the columns, but stop at the end of the picture row. Fold the second row up so it covers the pictures, then write “Done” with a check mark on the back of each flap.

Step  6

Setting Up and Using the Chart: Hang the chart in a place where your child can easily see and reach it. Each morning, your child can fold up the flaps to reveal “Done” as they complete each task. At the end of the day, simply unfold the flaps to reset the chart for the next day.

3. Enhancing Planning and Organization: Seeing the routine laid out helps kids plan their actions and develop organizational skills.

4. Reducing Stress and Increasing Focus: Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, allowing kids to focus better and feel less rushed.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Kids learn to adapt if something changes in the routine, which is key to developing flexible thinking.

Benefits of the Morning Routine Chart: Strengthening Executive Function

Using a morning routine chart offers significant benefits, particularly in strengthening executive function in young kids. But what is executive function, and why does it matter?

What is Executive Function? Executive function refers to a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. These skills are essential for managing time, paying attention, planning, and organizing.

How the Morning Routine Chart Helps:

1. Visual Cues for Working Memory: The chart provides a visual guide of tasks, helping kids remember the sequence without constant reminders, thus enhancing their working memory.

2. Building Independence and Self-Control: Kids practice doing tasks independently and learn to control impulses, reinforcing self-control and a sense of accomplishment.

3. Enhancing Planning and Organization: Seeing the routine laid out helps kids plan their actions and develop organizational skills.

4. Reducing Stress and Increasing Focus: Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, allowing kids to focus better and feel less rushed.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Kids learn to adapt if something changes in the routine, which is key to developing flexible thinking.

Master the tripod grip with our guide on how to correctly hold a pencil. Discover tips, hacks, and solutions for common mistakes.

Tripod Grip 101: How to Correctly Hold a Pencil

Learning how to correctly hold a pencil is essential for both children and adults, laying the foundation for effective writing and drawing. While some children naturally grasp the correct grip without much guidance, others may need a bit more support and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you see other kids picking it up more quickly—every child is different, and mastering the pencil grip can take time. In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal tripod grip, offer practical tips and step-by-step instructions, and introduce a clever hack using an elastic hair band to help guide fingers into the correct position. We’ll also address common mistakes and provide simple solutions to correct them, ensuring you have all the tools you need to achieve the perfect pencil hold. 

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

What is Tripod Grip and Why is it Important?

The tripod grip is the gold standard for holding a pencil. It involves using three fingers to control the pencil: the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. This grip gives you the best control and comfort, making writing and drawing much easier. Getting the tripod grip right is a game-changer. Here’s why:

• Better Control: You can move the pencil smoothly and precisely.
• Less Fatigue: It reduces strain on your hand, so you can write longer without getting tired.
• Neater Handwriting: It helps improve the overall look of your handwriting.

Steps for How to Correctly Hold a Pencil

1. Thumb and Index Finger: Pinch the pencil about an inch above the tip with your thumb and index finger.
2. Middle Finger Support: Let the pencil rest on the side of your middle finger.
3. Ring and Pinky Fingers: Tuck these two fingers gently into your palm. They should be relaxed, providing a stable base.

Quick Check

To make sure you’ve got it right, your fingers should form a triangle shape, with the pencil resting on the side of your middle finger. Your thumb and index finger should be holding the pencil, not too tight but not too loose either.

Practice Makes Perfect

It might feel a bit strange at first, but with some practice, the tripod grip will become second nature. Try using short pencils or crayons to encourage the correct grip naturally.

Mistake #4: Using the Whole Hand to Move the Pencil

Some kids move the pencil using their whole hand instead of their fingers, leading to large, uncontrolled movements.

Solution: Encourage finger movements by having them trace small shapes or letters. Practice drawing tiny circles or writing on narrow lines to promote finer motor skills.

Mistake #5: Incorrect Wrist Position

An incorrect wrist position, such as bending the wrist too much or keeping it too stiff, can make writing difficult.

Solution: Ensure their wrist is slightly bent and relaxed. A good way to practice is to write on a vertical surface, like a whiteboard, which naturally promotes the correct wrist position.

Mistake #1: Holding the Pencil Too Tightly

One common mistake is gripping the pencil too tightly. This can cause hand cramps and make writing uncomfortable.

Solution: Encourage a relaxed grip. Remind your child to hold the pencil gently, like they would hold a feather. Practice squeezing a stress ball to help relax their hand muscles.

Mistake #2: Thumb Wrapping Over the Index Finger

Another issue is when the thumb wraps over the index finger, reducing control and causing messy handwriting.

Solution: Show your child how to position their thumb and index finger in the tripod grip. A fun trick is to draw a small dot on their thumb and index finger and have them match the dots together while holding the pencil.

Mistake #3: Holding the Pencil Too Far from the Tip

Holding the pencil too far from the tip can make it hard to control and lead to sloppy writing.

Solution: Use visual markers, like a small piece of tape or a pencil grip, to indicate where their fingers should go. Remind them that their fingers should be close to the pencil’s tip but not touching the lead.

Mistake #4: Using the Whole Hand to Move the Pencil

Some kids move the pencil using their whole hand instead of their fingers, leading to large, uncontrolled movements.

Solution: Encourage finger movements by having them trace small shapes or letters. Practice drawing tiny circles or writing on narrow lines to promote finer motor skills.

Mistake #5: Incorrect Wrist Position

An incorrect wrist position, such as bending the wrist too much or keeping it too stiff, can make writing difficult.

Solution: Ensure their wrist is slightly bent and relaxed. A good way to practice is to write on a vertical surface, like a whiteboard, which naturally promotes the correct wrist position.

Hack for the Perfect Pencil Grip

Here’s a fun and effective hack to help kids get the perfect pencil grip: use an elastic hair band! This simple tool can guide their fingers into the correct position and make learning the tripod grip a breeze.

1. Wrap the Band: Take an elastic hair band and wrap it around the pencil about an inch from the tip. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight.
2. Place the Thumb and Index Finger: Have your child slip their thumb and index finger into the band. The band will help keep these fingers in the right spot.
3. Rest the Middle Finger: Let the pencil rest on the side of the middle finger as usual.
4. Check the Grip: Make sure the ring and pinky fingers are tucked into the palm, providing support.

The elastic hair band acts like a gentle reminder, encouraging kids to keep their thumb and index finger at the correct spot on the pencil. It’s a great way to build muscle memory and make the tripod grip feel natural.

Use this hack during practice sessions or homework time. Over time, your child will develop the habit of holding the pencil correctly, even without the band.

Simplify mornings with a DIY morning routine chart for kids. Help your child follow steps independently.

Say Goodbye to Morning Chaos with This DIY Routine Chart

Mornings with young kids can feel like a whirlwind, can’t they? Between getting everyone dressed, fed, and out the door on time, it sometimes feels like a small miracle when you finally make it to school or daycare. But what if there was a way to make mornings a bit smoother and more organized? Enter the “morning routine chart.”

A morning routine chart is a visual guide that helps kids know exactly what to do each morning without constant reminders. It can be a game-changer in establishing independence and reducing morning stress. Plus, it’s super fun for kids to follow along! In this post, I’ll show you how to create a DIY morning routine chart that’s perfect for young kids. 

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

Why Use a Morning Routine Chart?

Ever since we started using a morning routine chart, our mornings have been so much smoother. My child loves being able to check off each task, and she’s so proud when she completes everything and is ready for the day! It’s been a game-changer for us.

Here are a few awesome benefits:

• Visual cues for young kids: Kids love pictures, and a chart gives them a clear visual guide of what comes next. No more guessing or constant reminders!
• Helps establish independence: With the chart, kids can follow along and complete tasks on their own. They learn to take responsibility and feel accomplished as they move through their morning routine.
• Reduces morning stress: Knowing what to expect helps everyone stay calm and on track. Less stress for you means a happier start to the day for everyone.

Using a morning routine chart has not only helped my child become more independent but also brought a sense of order and calm to our hectic mornings. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference!

Printable Kid To-Do Chart

We understand that not every parent has the time to create a DIY morning routine chart from scratch. That’s why we’re offering a printable version! This printable chart is perfect for busy parents!

Simply download, print, and follow the easy instructions to set it up. The printable version includes all the same visual cues and task labels, making it just as effective as the DIY version.

Your child can still enjoy the fun and independence of checking off each task as they go, and you get to enjoy a smoother, stress-free morning without spending hours on preparation.

• Scissors
• Velcro stickers
• Glue for pictures
• Tape for securing on wall

• Large piece of cardboard
• Photographs or pictures of your child doing each morning task
• Marker or pen
• Scissors
• Velcro stickers
• Glue for pictures
• Tape for securing on wall

Step 4

Label Tasks: Below each picture in the second row, write out the tasks in chronological order. For example, “make bed,” “brush hair,” “brush teeth,” “get dressed,” “eat breakfast,” “pack bag,” “put shoes on.”

Step 5

Cut Columns to Fold Second Row: Use scissors to cut up the columns, but stop at the end of the picture row. Fold the second row up so it covers the pictures, then write “Done” with a check mark on the back of each flap.

Step  6

Setting Up and Using the Chart: Hang the chart in a place where your child can easily see and reach it. Each morning, your child can fold up the flaps to reveal “Done” as they complete each task. At the end of the day, simply unfold the flaps to reset the chart for the next day.

Step 1

Prepare Your Cardboard: Start with a large piece of cardboard. At the top, write “Morning Routine” in big, bold letters.Attach Velcro: Place Velcro stickers on the cardboard and the back of each folded flap to keep them in place when folded up.

Step 2

Create a Grid: On the cardboard, draw a grid with 2 rows and columns for each task that needs to be completed. In our example, there are 7 tasks, so 7 columns.

Step 3

Add Pictures: In the first row, place the different pictures of your child getting ready in the morning. Glue or tape these pictures in place.

Step 4

Label Tasks: Below each picture in the second row, write out the tasks in chronological order. For example, “make bed,” “brush hair,” “brush teeth,” “get dressed,” “eat breakfast,” “pack bag,” “put shoes on.”

Step 5

Cut Columns to Fold Second Row: Use scissors to cut up the columns, but stop at the end of the picture row. Fold the second row up so it covers the pictures, then write “Done” with a check mark on the back of each flap.

Step  6

Setting Up and Using the Chart: Hang the chart in a place where your child can easily see and reach it. Each morning, your child can fold up the flaps to reveal “Done” as they complete each task. At the end of the day, simply unfold the flaps to reset the chart for the next day.

3. Enhancing Planning and Organization: Seeing the routine laid out helps kids plan their actions and develop organizational skills.

4. Reducing Stress and Increasing Focus: Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, allowing kids to focus better and feel less rushed.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Kids learn to adapt if something changes in the routine, which is key to developing flexible thinking.

Benefits of the Morning Routine Chart: Strengthening Executive Function

Using a morning routine chart offers significant benefits, particularly in strengthening executive function in young kids. But what is executive function, and why does it matter?

What is Executive Function? Executive function refers to a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. These skills are essential for managing time, paying attention, planning, and organizing.

How the Morning Routine Chart Helps:

1. Visual Cues for Working Memory: The chart provides a visual guide of tasks, helping kids remember the sequence without constant reminders, thus enhancing their working memory.

2. Building Independence and Self-Control: Kids practice doing tasks independently and learn to control impulses, reinforcing self-control and a sense of accomplishment.

3. Enhancing Planning and Organization: Seeing the routine laid out helps kids plan their actions and develop organizational skills.

4. Reducing Stress and Increasing Focus: Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, allowing kids to focus better and feel less rushed.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Kids learn to adapt if something changes in the routine, which is key to developing flexible thinking.