Recent revelations from global educational research, including findings highlighted by the Times of India in their coverage on “10 morning habits that encourage children to go to school,” underscore the significance of cultivating consistent, supportive morning routines for school-aged children. With absenteeism and school refusal a growing concern for Thai families and educators, especially in the evolving landscape after COVID-19 disruptions, this research offers valuable, evidence-backed insights tailored for both urban and upcountry Thai lifestyles source.
In today’s fast-paced society, especially in bustling Bangkok or remote provincial towns alike, many Thai parents struggle each morning to motivate their children to eagerly attend school. Not only does a positive start translate to better academic outcomes, but it also lays the foundation for children’s long-term well-being and mental health. Studies have shown that consistent school attendance is linked to higher achievement, increased self-esteem, and improved social skills—imperatives for Thailand’s next generation as the country pushes for higher standards in the Education 4.0 era source.
Among the ten morning habits identified, establishing a regular wake-up time stands as the cornerstone. Dr. Ananya Singh, an education psychologist, explains, “Children thrive on routine; a predictable morning reduces stress and anxiety by giving them a sense of control.” Having a calm and loving dialogue over breakfast, preparing school items in advance the night before, and encouraging children to choose their clothes help foster independence and reduce last-minute chaos. Importantly, integrating Thai cultural staples—like a comforting bowl of jok (rice porridge) or a wai (ไหว้) to parents and elders—can enrich these routines, connecting children to their heritage and community source.
Further, limiting screen time in the early hours and replacing it with family conversation allows children the mental space to adjust gently from sleep to the demands of the school day. Dr. Surasak Charoensuk, a child psychiatrist at Mahidol University, adds, “Switching off the television and interacting with your child even for ten minutes can significantly improve their mood and school readiness.” Echoing similar sentiments, The World Health Organization and UNESCO recommend at least nine hours of sleep per night for children and a balanced breakfast for optimum cognitive function, issues directly relevant as Thai families increasingly adopt urbanized, digital lifestyles source.
For many children in Thailand, school can sometimes trigger anxiety—whether from academic strain, peer pressure, or fear of falling sick. By integrating playful elements in the morning, such as listening to luk thung (ลูกทุ่ง) songs or practicing a mindfulness exercise like deep breathing, parents can assuage fears and build resilience. Education specialist Apinya Leelasak from the Ministry of Education emphasizes, “Children who leave home with encouragement and without rushing are more likely to arrive at school calm and ready to learn.”
While these habits appear straightforward, implementation can be hindered by time constraints or economic realities in larger Thai families, especially when caregiving falls upon grandparents. The Bangkok Post has reported an uptick in grandparents raising children, making shared routines more complex but also more vital as a point of stability in a changing household structure. In these scenarios, gentle reminders, written schedules, and preparation the evening before can serve as practical tools.
Historically, school mornings in Thailand were shaped by collective community events, like sharing breakfast or commuting in groups. With rising urbanization and changing family structures, individual routines now play a bigger role, yet the Thai value of sanook (สนุก)—making things joyful—still resonates. Introducing playful competition over toothbrushing, gamifying the packing of school bags, or sharing a funny morning story can bring a dose of sanook to even the busiest schedules.
Looking forward, educational experts urge that schools and policymakers could support parents by sharing these research-backed strategies early, perhaps through LINE groups, morning meetings, or short YouTube clips subtitled in Thai. Practical changes such as shifting school start times for primary schools (as discussed by international researchers and recently in pilot projects in Bangkok) could complement these habits, particularly for young students who need more sleep.
To foster a positive change at home, Thai parents should start with small, attainable steps: set a regular weekday bedtime, encourage child involvement in preparing uniforms or materials, and create a predictable yet warm sequence for each morning. Building these habits may not solve tomorrow’s attendance challenges overnight, but over time, they can transform mornings from hurried battlegrounds into a springboard for confident, engaged learners.
As a reminder for every Thai family: consistency, culture, and connection form the heart of a good start. A little bit of preparation—and a lot of love—can turn each school day into an opportunity for growth, joy, and future success.
Sources: