Routines provide structure and stability in our children’s lives and can help them feel more secure, reduce anxiety, and promote healthy habits. Forming routines with children can be a challenge but as parents and caregivers we should try to persevere as they are so important – here are some helpful tips to get you started:
Create a Schedule
Decide which activities are important to your family, such as meals, playtime, and bedtime, and create a schedule around these activities that works for your family. We know it’s not always easy but try to stick to it as much as possible because consistency is key!
Involve Your Children
An easy way to get your child into a routine is by getting them to help you create it. Ask them what activities they enjoy and when they prefer to do them – they are more likely to get on board if they feel involved in the process.
Be Flexible
When you have a busy family life things don’t always go to plan – it’s ok to change things up every once in a while, just remember to get back on track when you can.
Use Visual Aids
Charts or calendars are a great tool to use to help your children understand what’s coming next and feel more in control, they can also make it more fun and enjoyable for your little ones.
Celebrate Achievements
When your children follow the routine, celebrate their achievements – try using a sticker chart or a special snack. This will help to motivate them to carry on and is a nice way of showing them how well they are doing.
Remember to Have Fun
While routines are important, they don’t need to be boring. Remember to incorporate fun activities to keep things interesting and engaging for your children. Mindfulness is a great addition to any child’s routine and we have some great tips for incorporating a daily mindfulness practice in this blog post.
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