As the summer holidays come to an end, it’s natural for routines to feel a little loose. Later bedtimes, slower mornings, relaxed meals and extra family time are all part of a Queensland summer—and none of that is a problem. It just means a gentle reset can help make the return to Term 1 smoother for everyone.
At Sorella Early Learning, we support families through this transition every January. Small, gradual changes over the next couple of weeks can make a big difference—bringing bedtimes and wake-ups forward, reintroducing regular meal times, and talking positively about returning to the centre. Even doing one “practice morning” can help children remember what their day looks like.
In the first few weeks back, some children settle quickly, while others need a little more time. Both are completely normal. Drop-offs may come with emotions, but children usually settle soon after parents leave, supported by familiar educators, friends and engaging activities. We’ll keep families updated through the app and stay in close contact if extra reassurance is needed.
We know this transition can feel big—for children and parents alike—but routines return faster than you might expect. By mid-February, mornings usually feel much easier again. Sorella Early Learning is here to support your family every step of the way, just as we do each year.
Term 1 starts on 27 January 2026. That means the six-week summer break is nearly over, and it’s time to shift from sleep-ins and beach days back to early wake-ups and structured routines.
Your Two-Week Action Plan
If you’re reading this in mid-January, here’s what to do now:
Start Sleep Adjustments
- Move bedtime earlier by 15-20 minutes every 2-3 days
- Move wake time earlier by the same amount
- Keep it consistent even on weekends
- Use blackout curtains if Queensland light is keeping them awake
Re-establish Meal Times
Holiday eating can be chaotic—snacks at odd times, treats at relatives’ houses. Try to get back in to a meal time routine.
- Regular breakfast at your school-morning time
- Lunch around midday
- Dinner at a consistent time
- Limit snacks to set times
Your child’s body needs to readjust to structured eating.
Do a Practice Run
Pick one morning this week and run through the entire childcare routine:
- Wake at actual time
- Toilet, wash, brush teeth
- Get dressed (real childcare clothes)
- Breakfast
- Pack bag
- Shoes on
- Get in the car
Time how long it takes. You’ll probably discover it’s 15-20 minutes longer than you remembered.
Start Talking About Day Care
Not constantly, but casually:
- “Soon we’ll see Miss Emma again!”
- “I wonder what’s in the sandpit now?”
- “Remember how much fun water play was?”
Pull up photos from Storypark showing your child playing. Visual reminders help reconnect with positive memories.
What to Expect:
For many children, a short, calm goodbye helps them settle more quickly than a long or uncertain one. While some tears at drop-off are normal, most children are comforted by educators and become engaged in play soon after parents leave.
Adjustment often happens in stages – some children settle straight away, others need a few weeks. Both responses are completely normal.
You’ve Got This
The transition feels daunting now, but routines re-establish quickly. By mid-February, Monday mornings will feel normal again. Your child will reconnect with friends and settle back into the Sorella rhythm.
At Sorella Early Learning, we help families through this every year. We know what we’re doing, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Sorella Early Learning Centre
Need support with the transition?
Call us, send an email, or drop in for a chat. We’re here to help families, you can also complete a contact form here.
Sorella Early Learning Centre
32 Tesch Rd, Griffin QLD 4503
Phone: 07 2111 6711
Website: https://sorellaearlylearning.com.au/
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:30pm
Sources
- Queensland Government Education. “School terms and public holiday dates.” Available at: https://education.qld.gov.au/about-us/calendar/term-dates
- KIS Academics. (October 2025). “2026 QLD School Term Dates & Holidays.” Available at: https://kisacademics.com/blog/qld-school-term-and-holidays-dates-for-2026/
- The Conversation. (October 2025). “5 tips to help ease your child back into school mode after the holidays.” Available at: https://theconversation.com/5-tips-to-help-ease-your-child-back-into-school-mode-after-the-holidays-129780
- Juggle Street. “Your Ultimate Back-to-School Guide: Everything You Need to Stay Organised.” Available at: https://www.jugglestreet.com.au/blog/your-ultimate-back-to-school-guide-everything-you-need-to-stay-organised
- DPS Warangal. (January 2025). “How to prepare your child for school after a holiday?” Available at: https://dpswarangal.in/blogs/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-school-after-a-holiday/
- Care for Kids. (July 2025). “Essential Childcare Tips for Working Mums During School Holidays.” Available at: https://www.careforkids.com.au/blog/school-holidays-and-childcare–how-does-it-work
The summer to school transition can be challenging, but with preparation and support, Griffin families can navigate it successfully. At Sorella Early Learning Centre, we’re ready to help your family start Term 1 2026 with confidence.