Back to Work After Summer: Tips for Adults

Getting back into routines and the swing of things for back to school can be a smooth process with a bit of planning and adjustment. Here are some tips to help you and your family transition seamlessly.

1. Re-establish Morning and Evening Routines

• Adjust your sleep schedule a couple of weeks before returning to work to ensure you're well-rested.
• Establish a consistent routine that includes winding down in the evening and preparing for the next day.

2. Organize Work Materials and Commute Essentials

• Make sure your work bag is packed with all necessary materials, including any tech devices, chargers, and documents.
• Plan your route and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, including checking fuel, tire pressure, and essential fluids.

3. Plan Outfits and Meals

• Lay out your clothes the night before to streamline your morning routine.
• Prepare breakfast and pack a lunch the night before. Consider making a weekly meal plan to save time and reduce stress.

4. Review Work and School Calendars

• Mark important dates on a calendar, including work meetings, deadlines, and school holidays.
• Discuss and coordinate daily schedules with your family, especially if you have children in school.

5. Set Goals and Expectations

• Outline your professional goals and tasks for the week.
• Discuss expectations regarding household responsibilities and after-school activities with your family.

6. Create a Productive Work Routine

• Ensure your work area is organized and free from distractions.
• Start your workday with a brief planning session to prioritize tasks and set daily goals.

7. Encourage Open Communication

• Discuss any concerns or adjustments with your family and colleagues as you transition back to your routine.
• Maintain regular communication with your children’s school and stay updated on any changes or important announcements.

8. Health and Wellness

• Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it's a morning jog or a post-work walk.
• Maintain a balanced diet to support overall health and energy levels throughout the day.

9. Limit Screen Time

• Set boundaries for screen time to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
• Engage in non-screen activities such as reading, exercising, or spending time with family.

10. Practice Good Hygiene

• Follow good personal hygiene and grooming practices, especially in shared spaces at work.
• Keeping in mind, many work places are scent-free these days.

11. Traffic Awareness and Safety

• Remember Ontario's school bus laws. When a school bus has its red lights flashing, you must stop regardless of the direction from which you are approaching. Only proceed once the lights have stopped flashing.
• Be mindful of reduced speed limits in school zones and be prepared for increased pedestrian traffic.
• Allow extra time for your commute to account for increased traffic and school buses stopping frequently.

If you're in the Niagara Region and need to cross the Welland Canal for your commute, check bridge statuses to avoid unexpected delays. Use local traffic resources like 93.3 FM, this website or apps to stay updated on bridge openings and closings.

12. Reflect on Summer Memories

• Take time to reflect on the warm memories of summer—family vacations, sunny days, and relaxed moments. Check out your dash camera footage and see if you caught anything unexpected.
• Use these memories to foster a positive mindset as you transition back to work and school routines. Sharing stories and photos with family and friends can help keep the summer spirit alive.

13. Set a Good Example

• Model safe driving behaviour, including obeying all traffic laws, using seat belts, and avoiding distractions.
• Stay alert and mindful of children crossing streets, especially near schools and residential areas.

By incorporating these strategies, you can smoothly transition back to work while reflecting on the joys of summer, ensuring the safety of school children, and adjusting to increased traffic.