Psychologist Mannanova shared how to help a child get into the learning rhythm.

      August 26, 2026 17:45 Society After the holidays, schoolchildren often need time to readjust to the academic routine. How parents can help their child adapt to the start of the school year was explained by Elena Mannanova, a candidate of psychological sciences and associate professor of the Department of Practical Psychology at Minin University. According to the specialist, it is not possible to quickly readjust a child's body after summer vacation, and it is not worth rushing this process.

      "Psychologists and pediatricians agree that adaptation to the academic rhythm after summer vacation takes an average of three to four weeks for a child," noted Elena Mannanova.

      If there is little time left before classes begin, the psychologist advises focusing on steps that provide noticeable effects in a short time. First of all, the sleep schedule should be changed gradually—shifting bedtime and wake-up time by 15-20 minutes per day, rather than trying to do it abruptly on the last night before school. Such a "jump," according to the specialist, causes additional stress and is worse perceived by the body. It is also important to reduce evening use of gadgets and screens, as blue light and stimulating content hinder the child from falling asleep faster. Another recommendation is to review the main academic topics in a playful manner, without turning preparation into an additional burden. Reading, discussing what has been read, and intellectual games will be beneficial, but without pressure and in moderation.

      Additionally, it can be helpful to recall pleasant school events from the previous year with the child and make a list of them. This can become an additional source of motivation before the new school year. If possible, the expert advises organizing a meeting with classmates in advance. Restoring social connections before September 1 helps the child to engage more easily both emotionally and academically. Elena Mannanova pointed out that research in the field of chronobiology of schoolchildren confirms that if a child's biological rhythms do not match the time classes begin, it can lead to sleep deprivation, decreased attention, and academic performance. This effect is referred to as "social jetlag."

      "Smooth and timely synchronization of the sleep schedule significantly eases the transition," she emphasized.

      Earlier, experts explained how to properly choose a school uniform. It was also reported that, on average, residents of Nizhny Novgorod spend 17,200 rubles preparing their child for the school year. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+