Children thrive when they know what to expect
Have you ever noticed how much easier things are for children when they know what is going to happen next?
It is not surprising. Routines provide children with a sense of security and make everyday life more predictable. This can actually make a big difference for the entire family.
Why are routines good for children?
When children know what is going to happen, they do not have to spend as much energy trying to figure everything out as they go. This can make transitions easier and bring more peace to everyday life.
Fixed routines can, among other things, help children to:
- Settle down more easily in the evening
- Handle shifts and transitions better
- Feel more secure
- Become more independent
And what about the adults?
Routines are also a help to us adults.
When some things just run on autopilot, we don't have to constantly decide what should happen next. This can provide more peace and fewer arguments about the same things every day.
And perhaps most importantly: when everyday life does not require so much planning, there is a little more room to just be together.
How to get started
You don't need to change your whole daily life at once. Start with one thing.
- Choose one routine – e.g., the morning routine or the time before bedtime
- Make it visible – especially for younger children, it can help to be able to see what is going to happen
- Repeat it – it takes time before a new routine feels natural
- Adapt it – what works for a 4-year-old does not necessarily work for a 10-year-old
Routines should make everyday life easier
Routines are not about having a perfect everyday life. Or about everything having to happen in exactly the same way every day.
They are about creating a framework that makes everyday life a little easier for both children and adults.
Because when everyone knows what is going to happen, there is less to keep track of. And more room for what actually matters
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