Routines are part of our daily life, whether we realize it or not. Making them work for us and our families can improve kids’ health and emotional development in BIG ways.
Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast, going to work or school, running errands like grocery shopping, or watching a TV show before bed to unwind – there’s lots of little ways we build routines into our daily life. For kids, this series of small actions is more than just “maintenance activities.” The everyday repetition found in routines can provide comfort and stability to young children who thrive on consistency. It also teaches good hygiene and safety habits that last a lifetime.
Whether it’s household chores or a simple greeting when we see a friend, different types of routines offer the opportunity to build up kids’ confidence, social skills, and instills in them a sense of personal responsibility. For adults, it can also help ensure smoother transitions between activities by making children feel sure of what comes next. When there’s less stress involved in the day-to-day everyone benefits.
Check out tips and tools to help establish positive, fun routines with your family using the videos, activities, and more below.