Young mothers often ask for advice on “how to set a routine for my child” or “how to get my child started on a routine.” Adopting practical routines to keep kids happy and engaged throughout the day is a top priority. Here are some tips for implementing routines and lessen frustration.
1. Involve the Child in Making Routines
Children know what they want, and if you can tap into that, it’ll make setting a routine much easier. Consult your little one on what activities they want to do each day and help them make a list or picture chart of their daily routine. This will help them feel involved and more likely to stick to the plan. Remember, your goal is to make a routine that works for both of you.
2. Be Consistent
Once you’ve set a daily routine, it’s essential to stick to it as much as possible. Kids thrive on predictability and consistency. If you keep changing things up, it will only confuse and upset them. Of course, there will be times when you have to deviate from the schedule, but try to keep those to a minimum. Any inconsistency in the routine should be explained to the child ahead of time, so they know what to expect.
3. Start Small
You don’t have to incorporate everything all at once. Instead, start with the most important tasks and add in others as you and your child get used to the new routine. Additionally, break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces. For example, if your goal is to get your child to brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day, start by having them brush for one minute once a day. Then gradually introduce more time as they get more comfortable with the task.
4. Make It Fun
Try to make routine tasks fun whenever possible. This will help your child associate positive feelings with following a daily routine. For example, sing songs while getting ready in the morning, dance while cleaning up the kitchen, or play games while brushing your teeth. You can even turn mundane tasks into fun challenges. For example, see how often your child can jump on one foot while brushing their teeth or see how fast they can get dressed.
5. Use Rewards
If your child struggles to stick to the daily routine, you can use rewards to motivate them. For example, you could give them a sticker for every task they complete or let them choose a particular activity to do once they’ve finished everything on their list. However, you don’t want your child to become reliant on them or expect a reward every time they follow the routine.
Conclusion
Creating a routine for your child can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By involving your child in the process, being consistent, starting small, and making it fun, you can make routines productive. With patience and effort, you’ll have a daily routine that works for everyone. Contact Happy Hearts on the Hudson for more tips on child care.