At first it wouldn’t seem so, but kids and routine are a good combination for learning. Having a routine lessens unpredictability and increases confidence. Particularly for going off to daycare, preschool, or kindergarten, a familiar routine can be a sort of invisible security blanket and another super tool in a child’s toolbox.
Just like we do, when kids know what is coming next, they feel more in control. They have an idea of what to expect and more clues about how to fit in. Not knowing what is happening can be challenging for all of us, and contribute to a level of stress. Even though kids may be very young, stress can affect them too. Almost one in four children suffers from anxiety and having a routine can be part of the solution, for kids and monsters.
A likely routine for kids would include such things as having a start to the day without being rushed for time, regular meals, time for inside play and outside fun, getting prepared for the next day and an appropriate bedtime. Telling time can be challenging, so clocks that show when it’s time for bed and time to get up are helpful.
For some resources about routines, there are many books and stories. Some children are still quite sleepy in the morning and may be grumpy. Beau Blackwell has a story about that called “The Morning Grumblies: A Book About Waking up Grumpy.” Wiggles and shakes start the day in “Llama llama, wakey wakey, by Anna Dewdney.” There are lots of titles for getting dressed, and not just kids, but frogs, farm animals, a little mouse and more. On-line there are picture resources that you can print off for your child.
Besides lowering anxiety and stress, routines are also important for setting our biological clocks. Often, kids have sleep challenges and having a routine is especially helpful. Relationships, learning, regulating emotions, understanding time, and physical development are influenced by routines.
(P.S. Check the play-of-the-day as part of your routine.)