Consistent Routine Helps Ease Children Into School
Date :
Thursday, November 19 2009
Source:
Autourina Mains
When children start school they have to adjust to a rigid schedule and maintain a daily routine so it can be hard at first, however having an established routine is quite beneficial for children. Daily routine and consistency gives children a sense of security, predictability (knowing what is coming next), and builds trust between the child and the adult. The school’s daily routine helps the child increase performance, increase her ability to work in an organized fashion, gives him a sense of self-security and increases ability to learn and grow. After school, when children get home from school, it is also important to keep a consistent after school routine. Plan regular after school routines such as:
- Snack and relax, play (let the child share his/her day’s experience)
- Study and homework
- Dinner (allow the child to help with preparation, table setting and clean up)
- Free time to relax, play, hobbies, etc.
- Bed time (bath, story time, etc.)
Dinner time is a great time to visit with your child about his day and your day as well as talk about future plans, appointments, and upcoming events. It is also a prime time to explore new vocabulary, discuss world news, issues concerning your community, family and school. Meal times are a great time to reconnect.
Bedtime routine helps the child and you wind down and get ready for a peaceful, restful night. Sleep deprivation leads to multiple health problems, so it is important to get enough rest. Your routine may include listening to soft music, bathing, reading, or doing a puzzle.
Establishing a weekly routine is just as important as having a daily routine. For instance create a weekly routine for:
- House cleaning (washing, cleaning)
- Attending social activities like church
- Special weekly meals (waffles every Sunday morning or pizza and movie every Friday night)
- Special family night (Saturday night movie and popcorn)
These are just a few examples of setting weekly routines and creating family traditions that bond the family and keep the family ties close. What works for your family is unique to your family only and there are no set rules of an “appropriate” routine. Just keep in mind to stay flexible and go with the flow. Routines that are too rigid or too busy are just as stressful as not having any routine at all.