Simple Family Routines May Be the Secret to a Smoother Start at School

A Penn State-led study found that steady family routines can help children adjust better as they start school.

Among 999 rural, low-income families, regular bedtimes and shared meals were linked to fewer behavior problems and ADHD symptoms.

The benefits were weaker when parents used harsher or more aggressive discipline.

Parents with greater cognitive flexibility tended to use less harsh parenting, which may further support smoother school transitions.