🌱Routines Part 2🌱

In this newsletter, you will get....

• Feature Articles

• Activities of the Week

Feature Articles

PBS.org has complied several different ways of making charts to keep track of all types of routines, bedtime, morning time, fun time, daily and weekly routines and more.

In Building a Routine and Sticking with it for Yourself and Your Child Kristin Schultz teaches that routines can help your children gain independence and a sense of control without you losing your mind.

Activities of the Week

Creating and sticking to routines doesn’t have to be a struggle—it can be a fun and engaging process for both you and your child. Here are many ways you can make a boring routine more fun. Anytime you or your kids are not wanting to stick to the routine, add one of these activities to the routine to make it more fun and exciting.

Routine Role Swap

• Occasionally, switch roles with your child during routine time. Let them be the "parent" and guide you through the routine, while you follow their instructions. This role reversal can be humorous and give your child insight into the importance of routines.

• Role-swapping gives your child a new perspective and deepens their understanding of the routines you’ve set.

Routine Treasure Map

• Create a "treasure map" of your home, with different routine tasks marked as "treasure spots" (e.g., brushing teeth in the bathroom, getting dressed in the bedroom). Your child can follow the map to complete each task, finding a small treasure or reward at the end.

Routine Freeze Game

• As your child goes through their routine, play a "freeze" game where you periodically call out "Freeze!" and they have to stop what they’re doing and hold still until you say "Go!" Resume the routine after a few seconds of freezing.

Routine Relay Race

• If you have multiple children, turn routines into a relay race where each child has to complete a task and then tag the next child to complete theirs. For a single child, time how fast they can complete each task and try to beat their personal best.

Routine Reward Jar

• Set up a jar where your child can earn a small token (like a marble or sticker) each time they complete their routine tasks without reminders. Once the jar is full, they can choose a reward, like a special outing or a small treat.

• The reward jar provides positive reinforcement and encourages consistency in following routines.