10 things parents should not force kids to do in the morning

Gentle morning habits for kids

Mornings can shape a child’s entire day. Trying to force something can create frustration and resistance. Avoid these pitfalls to have an easy, gentle beginning.

Wake up abruptly

Rough waking of children often results in sluggish and irritable moods. Instead, provide them with time to wake slowly and adjust in order to ease into the new day.

Rush through their routine

Hurrying brushing, dressing, or eating puts stress on them. Provide children with sufficient time to finish their routine at a pace that is comfortable for them to develop healthy habits and self-reliance.

Skip bonding time

Mornings are crazy, but not giving a quick hug or hello loses an opportunity for emotional connection. A little attention makes them feel loved and nurtured.

Stick to a tight schedule

A very structured timeline can be overwhelming for children. Leave room in the morning routine to create flexibility and prevent power struggles or stress at school time.

Groom to perfection

Demanding perfect hair, coordinating outfits, or clean shoes every day may be stressful on children. Dress them comfortably and let them personalize themselves within healthy boundaries.

Require smiles immediately.

Asking smiles immediately upon waking up is unfair. Children, like grownups, take a while to change from sleep to wakefulness. Be patient and let them settle into the morning.

Multitask or hurry.

Telling children to do a lot of things all at once—eat, get dressed, pack up—overwhelms them. Walk them through tasks step by step to cut down on confusion and stress.

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Be school-minded right away

Don't practice math facts or spelling at breakfast. Breakfast should be relaxing and supportive, not an extension of school tension or pressure.