Back-to-school in the UAE: Parents need a reset too—7 fun ways to get back on track

The children aren’t the only ones who need a reset when the school bell rings again. After weeks of late mornings, chaotic meal times, and the relentless summer heat, parents can feel just as out of rhythm. It's the season as a chance to reclaim structure, not just for the children, but for yourself too.

As Dr. Neeta Bhushan, emotional health advocate and author of That Sucked. Now What?, reminds us: even 'tiny resets' can be the most generous thing you do for your family. Here are seven fun, realistic ways parents can get back into the groove alongside their children.

Reclaim your mornings

School mornings can feel like a mad dash, but they don’t have to. Set your alarm just 15 minutes earlier than the children, not to pack lunches, but for a quiet coffee, journaling, or even just scrolling guilt-free. That pocket of calm can anchor your entire day.

Meal prep, but make it easy

Batch-prepping school snacks is a given, but why not extend the same grace to yourself? Stock the fridge with ready-to-grab healthy bites (something like boiled eggs, hummus packs, or cut fruit).

Rediscover your commute time

The school run doesn’t have to be a chore. Queue up that podcast you’ve been meaning to listen to or create a playlist just for drop-offs. It turns an errand into a micro-break.

Build your own bed-time too

Children aren't the only ones who need strict sleep schedules. Set a “tech-off” time for yourself (yes, the endless scroll counts), dim the lights, and aim for consistent bedtimes. Trust us, your 6 a.m. self will be grateful.

Reorganise your space

Back-to-school shopping usually means shiny new supplies for the kids. Use this chance to tidy up your own corners too — whether it’s your work desk, kitchen, or even your skincare shelf. Fresh spaces equal fresh energy.

Schedule your workouts like school periods

Your children have PE built into their week. You deserve the same. Whether it’s a yoga class, a brisk walk after drop-off, or even a living room dance session, block it on your calendar like a non-negotiable. The movement keeps you energised for the long school-day sprint.

Practise micro self-care

This isn’t about spa days. Think five minutes of deep breathing, journaling, or sipping tea in silence. As psychologist Olga Aksenova puts it, “A calm, emotionally available mother creates a warmer home for everyone.” When you give yourself these tiny pauses, you’re not being selfish, you’re ensuring your family gets the best version of you.

Even small steps, like a 10-minute solo walk, or tending to indoor plants — can act as a reset button for your nervous system, as Dr Bhushan explains.

Back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean burnout. Dr. Bhushan reminds us that even five minutes of intentional downtime can shift your energy , and when parents reset, the whole household benefits. So this year, don’t just send your children back to routine. Send yourself too.