Getting Back Into Routine: Home After the Holidays

The holidays are magical—but let’s be honest, they can also turn even the most well organized household upside down. Late bedtimes, relaxed rules, extra treats, and a packed social calendar often leave families feeling frazzled once school is back in session. If your mornings feel rushed, your evenings chaotic, or your children are struggling to readjust, you’re not alone.

The good news? With a thoughtful reset, your family can transition smoothly back into a rhythm that feels calm, supportive, and sustainable. Here are three practical ways to reset your home, schedule, and daily routine after the holidays.

// Reestablish Predictable Daily Rhythms Children thrive on predictability. After weeks of flexibility, their bodies and brains need clear cues to feel secure again.

Start by anchoring your day around consistent wake-up times, meal times, and bedtimes—even on weekends. Gradually moving bedtime earlier by 15–20 minutes each night can make the adjustment gentler, especially for younger children.

Morning routines should be simple and repeatable: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, pack bags, and head out the door in the same order each day. When children know what comes next, resistance decreases and confidence increases.

Tip: Visual schedules and simple checklists can be incredibly helpful, especially for preschool and elementary-aged children.

// Reset the Home Environment A cluttered space can contribute to emotional overwhelm—for both parents and children. After the holidays, take time to reset your physical environment.

Pack away seasonal items, rotate toys to reduce overstimulation, and create clear spaces for school essentials like backpacks, lunch boxes, and shoes. When everything has a designated place, transitions become easier and independence grows.

This is also a great time to revisit household expectations: screen time boundaries, homework routines, and after-school responsibilities. Keep rules clear, age-appropriate, and consistent.

Tip: Involve your children in the reset. Giving them ownership over organizing their space builds responsibility and cooperation.

// Prioritize Connection Before Correction After time away from routine, children often need reassurance before structure fully clicks back into place. Emotional connection is the foundation for cooperation.

Carve out intentional one-on-one moments—whether it’s reading together before bed, walking to school, or talking during snack time. When children feel seen and supported, they’re far more likely to respond positively to new (or reintroduced) expectations.

A calm, connected reset leads to fewer power struggles and a smoother return to routine.

Enter The Nanny

Resetting routines takes time, consistency, and energy—three things that are often in short supply for busy parents. This is where a nanny can be transformative.

A professional nanny helps reinforce routines throughout the day, ensuring schedules are followed consistently even when parents are working or juggling multiple responsibilities. From managing school drop-offs and pick-ups to supporting homework, meals, and bedtime wind-downs, a nanny becomes an extension of your parenting values.

At Little Lighthouse Nannies, we thoughtfully match families with experienced, nurturing nannies who understand child development and the importance of structure balanced with warmth. Our goal is to help your home feel calm, supported, and back on track—without the overwhelm.

If you’re ready to reset your routine with confidence, we’re here to help.