The Importance of Routines for children + Free Routine Board
It's totally normal for everyone, no matter their age, to have fears. And you know what? The fear of the unknown is often one of the biggest ones. For kids, this fear can be about anything from trying out new vegetables to facing big changes in their lives. As they grow up, they come across all sorts of changes in their daily routines - like letting go of pacifiers, moving from cribs to beds, or becoming the "big kid" in the family. These changes, even though they bring important learning experiences, can be overwhelming for children. But here's the deal - when we can see these changes coming and smoothly incorporate them into our family routines, we can really help reduce their stress and make the transition easier. Having well-organized and consistent routines gives children a sense of security and control, especially during tough times or complicated stages in their development. By carefully planning out their day-to-day lives, kids can learn to look forward to different moments in their routines and feel really proud when they complete each task.
So, here's the thing - every family is unique, right? Which means there's no one-size-fits-all routine that works for everyone. We've got to think about what works best for our own situations and needs. But, having a well-planned and regular routine can definitely make life easier.
Now, depending on the age of your kid, you might want to consider some of these routines. Like, getting them ready for preschool, school, or daycare. Or getting them all settled for bed - that's always a fun one, huh?
How about having family meals together? Eating at the same time every day can create a really nice sense of togetherness. Speaking of togetherness, spending time outdoors as a family can be super refreshing and enjoyable. And let's not forget about visiting friends and family - that's always a blast too!
For your little ones, it could also be helpful to have routines around going to places of worship or participating in family games or movie nights. And, of course, getting all crafty together or doing some family chores can be a fun way to bond as well.
But here's the thing - routines shouldn't be set in stone. It's important to have some flexibility and leave room for free time. That way, your child can learn to handle unexpected changes and not get overwhelmed. We definitely don't want routines to become a source of stress!
So, find what works best for your family and give it a shot. And remember, it's okay to shake things up every now and then.
Pro Tip
Looking for a handy way to stay on top of your daily routine? We've got just the thing for you – a fantastic routine board! And guess what? It's completely free! Click here to download it now and start getting organized
Source:
Rute Melo
Degree in Occupational Therapy, Escola Superior de Saúde - P.Porto.
Post-graduate in Sensory Integration, Escola Superior de Saúde do Alcoitão
She is passionate about working in the field of pediatrics, more specifically in the areas of developmental delay and special education.
What drives her is being able to give more learning opportunities to children with developmental difficulties, working every day to support parents, guardians and fellow therapists.