The Importance of Routines
Fall is here! Fall means cooler weather, warm sweatshirts, hot soup or cocoa and back to a regular routine for parents and children. For many adults, routine can be boring and predictable; but for young children, routines are eagerly anticipated and comforting. Children feel more secure and in control when they know what to expect at different times of their day. Routines can help toddlers with transition times. They are less likely to resist switching gears as they go from playtime to lunch or clean-up to bed. Parents can also benefit from keeping routines. They can eliminate time-consuming planning, cut down on last minute panic and can make busy days run more smoothly.
Routines are most effective when they are tailor-made to fit each family. However, some guidelines will work for any family:
First, begin slowly. The process may go more easily if taken one step at a time, such as picking up the day’s toys together before choosing a bedtime story.
Offer choices when possible. When preparing dinner, let children choose the vegetable or fruit. Toddlers have developed independence and asking them for input makes them feel important.
Set limits with your routines. Parents need to set rules and stick with them, such as a specific time for bed and how many stories will be read.
Last of all, have fun with your daily routines. The goal of routines is to make daily tasks less of a chore and more of an opportunity to share time with young children and teach some valuable life skills.