Routines (activities that follow a similar order and pattern each time) can reduce stress around transitions from one activity to the next. When children’s daily lives have a predictable rhythm, it helps them to feel safe, comfortable, and more willing to approach new challenges.
Creating a schedule together as a family and posting it in your home can help parents and children stay organized and can lead to positive daily habits such as eating healthy meals and getting a good night’s sleep. Use pictures/drawings to make it easier for young children to read and follow the schedule.
Following a routine at home is great practice for following a routine in school. Regular family routines also help ensure that children will arrive at school on time, well-rested, and ready to learn.
Daily routines can help prevent childhood obesity. Setting regular bedtimes, practicing regular family meal times, and limiting screen time for children can all help reduce the likelihood of obesity.
Routines can help reduce behavior problems. If children know what will happen next in their day, they do not need as many behavioral corrections. When children have established routines, they can be in control of different parts of their day, which can help reduce power struggles.
Routines help children become independent and responsible. Performing the same tasks on a regular basis helps children master them and feel comfortable doing them on their own.