As children are getting ready to return to school, parents wonder how to readjust schedules that were completely thrown off balance during the pandemic. Dr. Caroline Fenkel of Malvern has recommendations, which Ellen Byron uncovered for The Wall Street Journal.

To make the best and easiest transition, it is important to create as much certainty in the home as possible, according to Dr. Fenkel.

Dr. Fenkel is the chief clinical officer of Charlie Health, an online mental-health clinic for teens and young adults. She believes that having dinner each evening at the same time, designating a movie night for the family, and maintaining a sleep schedule can help create stability when done consistently week after week.

“They can say, ‘Well, at least I know that tonight is pizza night,’” said Dr. Fenkel. “That provides them a lot of comfort.”

She also recommends a thoughtful approach to extracurricular activities. She suggests balancing academics, sports/club participation, and time to unwind at home. She recommends parent-teenager collaboration to determine how busy they want to make their calendars without overwhelming either their children or themselves.

Read more about the recommendations of Dr. Caroline Fenkel in The Wall Street Journal.