The Importance of Daily Routine for Your Child

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How does routine play a role in child development? If you haven’t given this much thought, you should. Families with a routine are more likely to be organized and function together to accomplish goals or have fun. Routines establish expectations of what should be done and how often. Children are members of a family that thrive off of structure and consistency. Routines are good for children for several reasons. 

Why Is Routine So Important for Children?

Daily routines are different for every household, but there is a consensus on their benefits. Here are some benefits of a daily routine.

  • It helps children get on a schedule. A consistent routine allows children to develop positive behaviors, like having a more consistent sleeping schedule and better behavior at school.
  • More bonding with family. Children with a routine understand what is expected of them and are more likely to create better relationships with their families.
  • Creates expectations. Children with routines understand that there are rules in the house, and there will not be a power struggle with the parents.
  • It creates more confidence and independence. Your children will not have to rely on you for activities like brushing their teeth or putting pajamas on. Children have greater pride in not having to rely on you for help all the time. 
  • Form healthy habits. Children on a routine will create good grooming habits and wisely manage their time. They will also develop self-discipline as they get older. Routines also help reduce stress and prevent your child from getting sick as often.
  • Routines can also be fun. Don’t always think of routines centered around chores that you need to do around the house. For example, Saturdays might be your day to take your children to the park or go out for ice cream. 

Ideas for Making a Quality Daily Routine

Good daily routines are ones that effectively suit your family. Generally, they have three components. They include:

  • Well planned. The daily routine needs to be well-thought-out and discussed with your family. Each person should understand the role they play.
  • Consistent. Routines need to be done every day in order for them to be effective. For example, your children might know that they have to get their backpacks ready for school on Sunday nights. 
  • Predictable. Routines also need to follow the same steps each time. For example, your children might know that they need to set the dinner table each night. 

You’ll need to adapt the routine depending on your child’s age, but all routines have the same components. So start using a routine to take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer.