And all of a sudden we arrive in autumn. Where the trees are about to show us how beautiful it is to let go.

But as we start falling into autumn. It’s a time of year that signifies change, and not just in the trees.

I’m talking about the transition from holiday mode to back-to-school mode.

This can be a rather challenging and overwhelming time for both parents and children. The alarm clocks are back on and the day-to-day is automatically dictated by the school run, deadlines and calendar commitments.

To help with a successful, and smooth return in this period of transition, here are a few ideas to support young minds and us grown-ups too.

1. The return of the bedroom routine.

During the holidays, if your house is anything like mine, the bedtime routine relaxes. With later bedtimes and getting up later, unlike in term times. So, with the return of the alarm clock. It’s time to establish some sort of routine again. Every home will have a routine that works for you and your little people. However, a good place to start is to have a consistent time in the home where lights are out and phones, tablets and TVs are switched off.

This may help with sleep regulation and with no distractions encourage a good night's sleep to occur. With a good night's sleep, anything is possible.

2. Write down any worries and hopes.

If your child feels anxious or nervous at the thought of returning to school, then writing down their hopes and worries may help to pin down what’s bothering them. For example, they could write down a few words or a few lines in the form of a journal or they can tell you and you can write it down. You can then talk through these thoughts together and think of solutions to help overcome them.

3. Get organised the night before school.

To try and eliminate any last panic before school, getting organised the night before as part of the nighttime routine can have a positive impact. This can be led by parents and over time even independently actioned by your young humans.

For example, having the uniform laid out, the bag prepared, lunch box ready to go the night before allows time for any last-minute worries to be discussed. Without rushing to look for the new school shoes you brought at the start of the holiday. This may minimize big feelings and encourage calmness in the morning rush, within the home and you and your humans.

Transition signifies change and when change arrives sometimes anxiety can arrive. Now is a good time to reflect.

With a focus on all the positive things, and people in your life. For example, writing this down creates a positive visual on the days when everything is a bit much. It’s great to have a read-through and focus on all the wonderful things, people and adventures you have had that bring you a smile. Slowing down and appreciating the little things is always worth it.

Always be you, and remember positivity is power. “Small steps, create big smiles”.

You got this!