Getting Back to a Normal Routine After the Holidays
Parents, be kind to yourselves this week.
This is almost always a hectic week. Getting back into the swing of things is hard—especially after being home for two weeks, traveling, hosting people, or having parents on vacation too. A bumpy transition is normal.
A few things to keep in mind:
Get on the same page as your partner.
When adults share expectations, kids are much more likely to understand them and follow through. Fewer mixed messages = less stress for everyone.
Reconnect before you correct.
The holidays are busy. Even when kids seem happy and entertained, they may not have had much true connection with you. Children are more cooperative when they feel connected.
This doesn’t have to be big—take a walk, spend 10 minutes one-on-one, play a board game, or even join them in a video game. Anything that helps them feel safe and seen matters.
Take it slow. Really slow.
Many children with ADHD have slower processing speed. That means it takes longer to follow directions and shift into routines. If you can, get up a bit earlier this week so you’re ready when they are. Extra support right now is not “spoiling”—it’s scaffolding. This is hard for them, and it’s okay to help.
Give grace—lots of it.
To your kids, to yourself, and to your partner. This is a tough week. Let go of what isn’t essential. Choose one or two priorities and leave the rest for later. You have plenty of time to teach the other things.
Model what you want to see.
Kids learn best by watching. “Live your life out loud” by narrating your steps:
“I need to go to the store. First, I’ll find my keys, then my coat, then my purse, and I’ll make a list before I leave.”
This builds executive functioning in real time.
Keep meals simple.
Nutrition matters—but this may not be the week to aim for perfection. Simple, easy meals are more than enough while routines are settling back in.
Take care of yourself—small things count.
Self-care doesn’t have to be big or fancy. It can be taking a few quiet minutes to sit down, taking a deep breath, or grounding yourself between tasks. Those small pauses truly help.
Support executive functioning proactively.
Use timers, alarms, visual schedules, and visual timers. Lay out clothes the night before. Put backpacks and shoes by the door. These supports reduce morning chaos and help everyone know what’s coming next. Keep using them until routines feel steady again.
Finally, remember this: you are doing a fantastic job!
Parenting a child with ADHD is harder than parenting a neurotypical child, and it requires doing things differently. Give yourself credit. Give your children grace. Prioritize connection—and I promise, it will get easier.