Tips to Get Kids “Up and at ‘Em” in the Morning

When it is time to wake up early for school or daycare, some kids would rather stay hidden under the covers. Sure, when Saturday comes they are bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and ready to pounce for play, but on weekdays, it is usually another story.

Getting the kids up for school on time can be a challenge, and even when we get their tired little bodies out of bed, getting the morning routine underway takes lots of patience and pestering. We can get up, so what’s with the kids? Perhaps they need some incentive to feel energized and eager to start the school day off with a bang, making the morning something they look forward to.

Here are some tips to get the kids “up and at ‘em” come morning. Once they come to realize that their day is going to be full of new beginnings and possibility, they’ll be ready for their feet to hit the floor before the sun comes up.

Musical Mornings

Turn up the volume and make morning time a mini-dance party. Play that upbeat music while the kids brush their teeth and hair and get dressed, as they enjoy a healthy breakfast, and while they pack their schoolbags and lunchboxes. With a “sunrise soundtrack” the kids will be pumped up and ready to rock their day with a smile and that extra swing in their step.

Filling and Fueling Food

A wholesome and good-for-you breakfast is vital for kids to have the stamina to make it ‘till lunch. The most important meal of the day should be well-balanced and tasty, so the kids want to eat it and energize their bodies and minds for a day of learning and adventure. Go for eggs and whole grain toast with a side of fresh fruit, a yogurt smoothie with fruit and oats, or a hot bowl of oatmeal with honey, nuts, and berries. If you are in a rush, pack a breakfast bar, some trail mix, or a PB & J sandwich on whole grain bread. Something is always better than nothing, so be sure your child has some food in their system before they’re off to school.

Play Time

Wake up your child 15-20 minutes before they really need to be and let them play for a while. Knowing the day will start off with a little fun is a surefire way to ensure your child won’t want to sleep in. Keep some toys by their bedside so they can start right away but be certain you set a time limit so there’s no debating how long morning play time will be. After the toys are neatly put away, it is time for breakfast and getting dressed. How much fun will this be for the kids?!

Try these techniques and you’ll see a big difference in your child’s morning attitude. What do you do to get your child out of bed in the morning?

For more info like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs.

By: Melissa A. Kay