You may be putting off creating a routine for your children, but trust us when we say that it is worth the effort.
Although a routine requires structure and consistency (and a whole lot of patience), all of which are difficult to achieve in everyday life, once you have established one that caters for the needs of every family member, you will see huge improvements in all aspects of your home life.
As well as massive improvements in the moods and sleep of everyone at home, routines are also important for the well being of our children. Here are some of the reasons why.
The benefits of a good family routine
Routines give children a sense of security and control over their environment
When life is organised and consistent at home, children feel safe, secure and looked after, especially during stressful times or during difficult stages of development. By creating a predictable daily routine, children also learn what to expect at various times of the day and experience a sense of control and satisfaction when they complete these tasks.
Routines can help limit poor behaviour and outbursts
A lot of bad behaviour is primarily triggered by hunger, tiredness or overstimulation, therefore developing a routine where they eat and sleep at certain times will help children emotionally prepare for the next task and understand what is expected of them when the task is completed.
Read: How to Create a Daily Routine that Works for Your Family
Routines help children learn essential life skills
Routines help children learn so much from learning how to perform each task (getting dressed, brushing teeth etc) to learning how the world works and what they need to do in order to interact successfully in it. A simple daily routine provides a basis for children to learn other essential skills such as basic hygiene, time-management, self-control, self-care, responsibility, independence, and confidence.
Routines help bring you all closer as a family
Routines involve doing a lot of things together and while the tasks themselves might seem mundane, this can actually really help to strengthen family relationships. When building your ideal family routine, think about how you can create them around having fun or spending time together such as reading stories before bed or going somewhere for a treat after dance class or football practice. These moments will become a special time for you and your child to share and will be remembered when they grow older and make their own traditions.
Next time you have a long and stressful day and you’re tempted to eat in front of the TV or let your children stay up until they tire themselves out instead of getting them ready for bed, stop and think of all these benefits they provide to both your children and your whole family.
A little effort every day means less stress for everyone and happier times together – isn’t this alone worth it?
At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.