If your kid wakes up happy, then chances are they will stay that way for most of the morning. That’s why it makes sense to have a pleasant way of waking them.

Don’t shout or bang on their door. Instead, use an alarm that will rouse them with the sounds of their choice, such as their favourite song. Smartphones let you download all sort of fun ringtones, which can be synchronised with the alarm.

The first meal of the day is more fun when it’s not the same old thing every morning, so prepare a range of cereals that they can choose from.

They like variety and especially enjoys the responsibility of picking the dish that she’ll eat. Having selected their food themselves, they are much more likely to feel relaxed and cooperative. That helps the day get off to a good start. And sometimes, they will prefer you to decide for them.

Having their clothes laid out the night before and school bag packed and ready reduces the stress of a morning start. No more scurrying about furiously for that missing school diary, or last-minute scrambling to find their homework.

You’ll find that there seems to be a lot more time available than you previously thought, so you can spend longer together at breakfast and have a more relaxed departure for school. Good preparation is an effective stress-remover.

Sure, it’s probably easier if you drive them to school the same way every morning, or if you take the same bus every time. But that can become boring – just like you, your child gets fed up taking the same transport and the same route. So, add an element of fun by providing variety.

Walk them to school instead of driving them there, or cut through the park instead of taking the more direct urban route. She enjoys change like that and they will be more enthusiastic going out the front door.

Tell your kid that they will get a special treat if they get ready in the morning without a complaint. Of course, you can’t – and shouldn’t – do this every day, but an occasional incentive adds fun to their daily routine.

You may be surprised at how perky they are the next morning as they prepare to leave for school. Use a reward that interests them, such as an extra few minutes before bedtime, or watching their favourite Youtube show.

The constant battles to get your young one out in the mornings might make you feel worn out and grumpy from the moment you wake up. It’s almost as if you have become conditioned to be in a bad mood when you wake up as a result of your child’s complaining.

It’s time to break that pattern. Tomorrow morning, be relaxed and happy. Take time to chat with your kid and respond pleasantly to them. Your happy-go-lucky attitude may well rub off on them.

This article was first published in Young Parents. 

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