Transitions and Routine
Children who know what to expect are more confident in themselves and the world around them. Having a routine in place at home and at school empowers children and makes them feel in control. Routines help children learn to trust that others will take care of them and meet their needs.
Develop a Nighttime Routine:
- Turn off electronics at least one hour before your child goes to bed
- Have them take a bath or shower and brush their teeth
- Reading to children before bedtime creates a nighttime routine where children feel connected and have a positive interaction with you before they go to sleep
Benefits of Routines:
- Routines at home help prepare children for the routines that will happen at school
- Routines help adults manage the stress that comes from handling all the tasks during a busy day. When far less stressed, children get more positive attention from them.
How to Establish a Routine:
- Plan a Routine: Choose a time of day, such as bedtime, to establish a routine
- Involve Your Child: Make a plan with your child so they can have a say in some parts of the routine
- Visual Aids: Write down the steps of the routine or make pictures of each step and post it so everyone can see it
- Be Patient: Follow the routine as posted every day. It may take some time for your family to learn the new routine. Research tells us that it takes 21 days to make a new idea a habit. Try it for three weeks every day and see what happens! Notice the changes in your child, their behavior, and the positive interactions that are occurring as a result.
- Communicate Changes: Let your child know ahead of time if there will be a change in the routine. By informing them of changes, it helps empower your child and maintains their sense of control.
