2 min read
Routines allow families to get things done, spend time together and have fun. Every family has its own unique set of routines. Routines help family members know who should do what, when, in what order and how often.
Why are family routines important?
Children want to be their ‘own boss’ and need independence. By organizing a proper routine, children know what is coming next and feel empowered. Routines diminish stress for everyone as each person knows what is coming next. Children can anticipate transitions and do not feel pushed around.
Over time, children learn to brush their teeth, pack their backpacks, etc., without constant reminders. Having chores as part of family routines help children develop a sense of responsibility, some basic skills (such as managing time) and increase their confidence and self-esteem. As children are able to do their tasks without adult supervision, they develop independence too!
An organized and predictable home environment helps children feel safe, secure and looked after – particularly in stressful times and various stages of development (e.g. pre-teens). As children learn what’s coming next, they look forward to it (e.g. brush your teeth then a story, tidy up your room then play outside, homework first then play).
Regular routines help children get on a schedule and diminish stress for everyone. Less anxiety in everyone’s life makes for a more peaceful life. If everything is a fight, often parents end up giving in (e.g. more TV time, skip brushing teeth for tonight, accept not being punctual, etc.).
Sit with your children and discuss the things that need to be done at a particular time of the day. For example, what do they need to do every morning before going to school (eat, brush teeth, get dress, prepare bag, put on sunscreen)? Design a colorful routine chart with them that they can easily understand to follow the morning routine. Put the chart up for everyone to see. Ask the children to ‘tick’ each item as they do it, building a sense of accomplishment and independence. Use positive language to encourage them to follow the list, for example, “You already did three things from the chart, only two more to go” “Thank you for following the chart, this is very helpful” “You are becoming more and more independent, good for you!”
For older children, make sure that the routine is discussed and agreed upon so that everyone knows what is coming. Of course, on particular days, you can be flexible, but in general, a routine helps the whole family feel more empowered and less stressed.
Marie Marchand, founder of Parenting Dialogue, parent, City Kids pre-school principal and co-author of bestselling children's book Home from Home, has over 29 years of international experience teaching in Canada, Switzerland and Hong Kong. She is asked by parents, schools and different organizations to run private sessions, workshops and seven-week courses on all matters relating to successful parenting and teaching.
This article was independently written by Healthy Matters. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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