Summer Sanity Saver: Simple Morning & Evening Routines That Work!

How is it already August?
This is the time of year when I get to hear about fun family vacations and the increasingly creative camps my clients attend. Summer really is a special season, and my hope is that you’ve been able to intentionally carve out time to enjoy each other’s company and have fun.

When it comes to summer, there’s a delicate balance between routine and flexibility. The natural drop in structure when school’s out can be both beneficial and challenging. That’s why I often encourage the parents I work with to “bookend” the day with predictable routines—this not only supports quality sleep, but also helps with healthy nervous system regulation.

Kids feel more secure when they know what to expect. Consistent sleep and predictable transitions mean fewer meltdowns and more happy memories. On the flip side, when rest is irregular and structure disappears, the whole family system can start to feel wobbly.

Here’s an example of a summer routine I often share with families—simple enough to actually keep up, but grounding enough to help everyone stay regulated:

Evening Routine (with a 9:00 pm bedtime)

• 6:30 pm – Dinner and put screens away

• 7:00–8:00 pm – Screen-free activity: board game, reading, art, or outdoor play

• 8:30 pm – Pajamas on, teeth brushed, read in bed

• 9:00 pm – Lights out, goodnight!

Morning Routine

• 7:00 am – Wake up for camp, daycare, or other activities

• 7:30 am – Breakfast

• 8:00 am – Get dressed, teeth brushed and pack backpack

• 8:30 am – Leave home for the day

These “anchors” give kids a sense of stability, no matter how the hours in between unfold. You don’t have to follow a rigid schedule—just keep mornings and evenings steady, and you’ll likely see a noticeable shift in your family’s overall mood.