Routine Chart Tips That Work
I know school had started a while back, but things can still get a little busy in the morning getting everyone out the door on time. Some of you may still be feeling overwhelmed or frustrated in the morning because of this and I want to help you with that! Which is why I want to talk to you about routines.
The reason I want to talk about routines is that they are easy and effective and great for kids of almost any age.
It’s something you can do that can make a difference with your family within a week.
A great way to start is with a routine chart.
The chart gives kids what they need which is a visual reminder and a sense of independence when they do things themselves
Making a chart
- Do it together; involve your child.
- Talk about the stressful situation with your child if they are old enough already.
- Suggest a chart to help us remember what to do in the morning.
- Make it together by asking your child to list all the things that need to get done.
- Gives children a great sense of accomplishment and pride!
Ideas/fun ways to make a chart
- Pictures of your child, print and hang in sequence → great for toddlers
- Choose pictures, print out, cut, color and stick on a chart → great for 4-6 year olds
- You can also have them in writing and have your child add activities they want or take things away —> great for older kids 7 and up
Practical tips on getting things done in the morning
- Remind your child of the chart. Don’t give in to nagging.
- Make the chart the boss: “what does the chart say we should do next”
- Put a sticker next to each thing that is done
- You don’t have to focus on sequence
- Remember: it takes time and practice
Try it out!
Jailan Heidar is an Egyptian parent educator currently living in The Netherlands. She has a MSc. in Child and Family Studies from Leiden University. She specializes in providing parenting support to parents of children from 0-5 years through her website EarlyYearsParenting.
