Routines help make daily life organized and efficient.
They create familiar, predictable situations in a child’s life, providing comfort and stability.
It is important to know how to incorporate daily routines into a child’s habits.
Tips for Establishing Family Routines:
Plan Time Spent Together as a Family
Schedule time for work, school, and family activities, both before and after.
When a routine is in place, family life runs more smoothly, and everyone knows their role.
Set Time Limits for Certain Activities
Limit phone, TV, and computer use to a set amount of time that works for the entire family.
For example, incorporate limited TV time as part of the routine.
Talk to Your Child About Routines
Use simple, consistent explanations, like “First, we brush our teeth, then we read a story.”
Encourage Children to Stick to Routines
Place a poster with pictures of the routine in a visible place for everyone to see.
Encourage children to handle parts of the routine independently, such as washing hands before meals.
Help Children Follow Routines Without Parental Help
Encourage your child to remember the routine, such as wake-up time, getting ready for school, or leaving the bedroom in the morning.
You can place a radio alarm clock in their room to help them wake up on time.
Ensure the Routine Is Age-Appropriate
Adjust parts of the routine to suit your child’s age. For example, a preschooler may need help with certain tasks that an older child can manage independently.
Offer Praise for Following the Routine
When your child follows the routine without assistance, acknowledge their efforts and offer praise.
