Family routines add structure, help family members feel prepared, and reduce stress. We all do best when certain routines are established and we know what is expected of us, when we need to participate, and how much time it will take.
Weekday morning routine
- Put as many things in order the night before
- Keep wake-up routines cheerful and positive
- Be sure your child eats breakfast, even if they are not hungry
- Pause long enough to say good-bye to your child, a hug goes a long way to help your child's day go better
After school routine
- Make sure children are in a safe place they will be cared for after school is over
- After-school activities, grandparent's homes, and neighbor's homes are good options
Mealtime routine
- Meals eaten as a family provide an opportunity for families to spend time together
- Listen to everyone's stories about their days to reinforce that you care about each other
- Discuss family plans or upcoming activities for individuals
Bedtime routine
- An established wind down routine is helpful for all family members
- Young children need 30-45 minutes of wind-down time in order to be calm and fall asleep more easily
- Children may want a chance to talk to mom and dad or hear a story
- Bedtime routine should not include rowdy activities
- Children are able to establish their own routines as they get older, but parent's should still enforce established bedtimes
Creating routines can be challenging, but it can help strengthen families and increase children's devotion to family.
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