Importance of Routines

Have you ever gone on a family holiday without an itinerary? Or turned up to a meeting without having received the agenda in advance? Planning is key to ensuring things run smoothly—it helps us prepare for what lies ahead.

Routines refer to familiar patterns and activities that are simple enough for younger children (1) to understand and engage with. They don’t need to be complex—just consistent. Routines are important because they provide structure, predictability, and a sense of security, (2) offering powerful opportunities for connection, engagement, and development (3).

Here are a few reasons why you should introduce routines with your children back at home:

Improve Self-Regulation and Increase Focus 

“Self-regulation involves children’s developing ability to regulate their emotions, thoughts and behaviour to enable them to act in positive ways toward a goal” (4).

Routines and schedules help children anticipate what’s coming throughout the day. This predictability provides stability, reduces anxiety (5), and prepares children to engage in learning experiences and tasks with greater focus.

‍Encourage Independence

Getting ready for the day supports children in developing independence as they become familiar with their daily routines. Self-help skills—such as packing their bags, preparing their own snack boxes, and setting alarms for the next day—can be nurtured through consistent routines. By being involved, children learn to make choices and take responsibility for tasks (6), building self-confidence and independence.‍

Develop Time Management Skills 

Children also gain the awareness and concept of time (2). This is especially beneficial for older children—when they can anticipate upcoming tasks or deadlines, they learn to manage their time effectively, prioritise, and complete tasks with purpose.

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TIPS TO CREATE AND MAINTAIN ROUTINES AT HOME

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How do you manage your busy work life? Some of us rely on calendars and weekly planners, while others use virtual assistants.

Daily schedules are a key part of every camp at Camp Beaumont. Timetables for both participants and camp leaders provide structure and routine, helping to optimise learning opportunities and support positive behaviour.

Here are some tips to help you stay consistent with routines at home:

Make routines visible:

Hang illustrated posters (for younger children) or written lists (for older children) at home. These serve as helpful reminders, building accountability and consistency. Involve children in setting routines—and don’t forget to celebrate their accomplishments! 

Explain routines to help children understand: 

There will be times when motivation dips. That’s why it’s important to focus on essential daily tasks. Clear and consistent explanations help children understand the purpose of routines and gradually build self-discipline. 

Allow room for flexibility to encourage autonomy: 

Are your current routines overwhelming your child? It might be time to revisit them with your child’s developmental needs in mind. Involving children in adjusting routines helps meet everyone’s needs more effectively. Sometimes, simply scheduling time to rest and recharge can make all the difference!

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References

1. Youth First:  https://youthfirstinc.org/routines-provide-stability-for-kids/ 
2. Out of Box Academy: https://outofbox.com.sg/routine-care-in-preschool/
3. Victoria (Australia) State Government: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/childhood/providers/edcare/Three-Year-Old-Kindergarten-Teaching-Toolkit/Tip-Sheet-9-Routines-V4.pdf 
4. Birth to 5 Matters: https://birthto5matters.org.uk/self-regulation/ 
5. The Kids Mental Health Foundation: https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/mental-health-resources/mental-wellness/kids-routines 
6. Queensland (Australia) Government Early Childhood Education and Care: https://earlychildhood.qld.gov.au/early-years/early-learning-at-home/encourage/learning-independence-through-routines

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