“Our home is so chaotic!” Family life is busy, there is no denying that! There are times when it seems like everyone is going in a different direction and you’re feeling stressed about a to-do list that is a mile long. If you can relate to this feeling, it may be time to figure out what’s causing some of the stress.
Does your child argue every time they need to change activities?
Are there battles every night at bedtime?
Does it feel like a rush to get out the door because your child can’t find her shoes?
One of the easier ways to reduce this type of stress is to set routines.
Now, you may be one of those spontaneous folks that I envy just a bit, and you may be thinking, "But I hate routines!" I'm going to ask you to trust me when I say your kids need some routines and how you’ll benefit as well!
1. Routines build predictability
Change can be uncomfortable and it can cause power struggles between a parent and child.
In young kids, predictability helps prevent power struggles because the child knows what's expected without being pushed into it. “I have my jammies on, now I get to do storytime with Dad." When young children know what is expected of them, they have a better chance of fulfilling the expectation.
For older kids, predictability may reduce anxiety and teaches them to plan ahead (an executive function that is still in development). "Hey, I have a quiz every Friday, so I can study a little each day so I'm not cramming at midnight on Thursday." (Every parent's dream situation, right?! lol)
2. Routines build confidence and independence
There are skills involved in each activity a child does. Routine allows for repetition and practice of each skill. As a child masters a new skill, he grows in confidence and independence.
3. Routines build more calm days
One of the best benefits of routines is the sense of calm it brings to a household.
I remember dreading getting the kids out the door for sports, scouts, etc. Inevitably, someone was missing just as we had to get in the car.
The frustration was real!
Instead of continuing the last minute panic, we decided to develop an after-dinner routine: The kids were in charge of packing their sports/activity bags and backpacks for the next day. The kids made sure they had their shoes, water bottles, and practice jersey all ready so they could just grab it and go.
Something that simple can make a big difference in everyone’s day!
So what are some routines you can begin to set up for your family as we move into fall? If you need some help building routines that will work for your family, I’m here to help! Simply click here to book a Parenting Strategy Session today! Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
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