How to Keep Kids in a Routine

As parents, we face the challenge of transitioning our kids from one routine to the next.

We’ll explore specific examples of practical strategies that can help how to keep kids in a routine. Get ready to say goodbye to meltdowns and hello to a more harmonious and stress-free daily routine for the whole family.

1 / Establish Consistent Routines

Create a consistent bedtime routine, such as bath time, reading a story, and turning off lights at the same time each night. This predictability helps signal to your child that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

2 / Use Visual Aids

Make a visual schedule like Cubo Sticky Schedules, using pictures or symbols to represent different activities throughout the day. Place it in a visible location so your child can refer to it and have a clear understanding of what comes next.

3 / Provide Clear and Concise Instructions

Instead of saying, “Get ready for bed,” break down the steps into simple instructions like, “Brush your teeth, put on your pajamas, and get into bed.” This clarity helps your child understand exactly what they need to do.

4 / Use Transition Cues

Set a timer or use a gentle alarm to signal when it’s time to transition from one activity to another. For example, you can say, “When the timer goes off, it’s time to clean up and get ready for dinner.”

5 / Offer Choices

Give your child a sense of control by offering choices within transitions. For instance, ask, “Would you like to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt today?” This empowers them and reduces resistance during the transition.

6 / Incorporate Transitional Activities

Engage your child in transitional activities that make the transition more enjoyable. Sing a special song while tidying up toys or play a quick game on the way to the car. These activities distract from the change and create a positive association.

7 / Practice Patience and Empathy

Transitioning can be challenging for children, so practice patience and empathy. Validate their feelings by saying, “I know it’s hard to stop playing, but it’s time to go now. Let’s do it together.”

8 / Celebrate Successful Transitions

Praise and reward your child for successful transitions. This can be as simple as giving a high-five or saying, “Great job getting ready for school so quickly today!” Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the behavior.