Why some Kenyan parents are struggling to get children back into a school routine
By Trizer Lijondo, August 21, 2026As the third term approaches, some Kenyan parents are finding that getting children back into a structured school routine is proving more difficult than expected.
After several weeks of holiday freedom, many children have become accustomed to sleeping late, spending more time on their phones and watching television, playing with friends and following fewer daily schedules.
With schools reopening, parents are now trying to restore the routines that keep children organised during the school term. For some families, the transition is not happening overnight and requires patience and consistency.
Late nights make early mornings difficult
One of the biggest challenges parents face is adjusting children’s sleeping patterns. During the holiday, some children may have stayed awake much later than they normally would on school nights.
Returning to early bedtimes can therefore result in resistance, particularly when children are used to deciding when to sleep and wake up.
Parents can begin gradually moving bedtime earlier instead of making a sudden change. Waking children closer to their school-day time can also help their bodies adjust before classes resume.
Screen time can be another challenge
Phones, tablets, television and gaming often become a bigger part of children’s daily routines during school holidays.
For some children, reducing screen time once school resumes can feel like losing a freedom they have enjoyed for weeks. Parents may therefore face arguments when trying to reintroduce limits.
Rather than waiting until the first day of school, families can begin establishing reasonable screen-time schedules before reopening. Setting specific periods for entertainment while protecting time for sleep, meals and preparation can make the transition easier.
Getting children mentally ready
Beyond uniforms, books and school fees, parents also have to help children mentally prepare for the return to classrooms.
Some children may be excited to see friends again, while others may feel anxious about homework, teachers, examinations or adjusting to a demanding timetable.
Talking to children about what to expect can help reduce unnecessary anxiety. Parents can also encourage them to organise school supplies, review a few academic materials and gradually resume simple study habits.
The goal is not to make the final days of the holiday feel like school, but to gradually restore structure so that the first week back does not come as a major shock.