As much as we all look forward to Saturday and Sunday to give us a break from the daily grind, human beings (even animals) love their routines. The COVID-19 stay-at-home order is a challenge for all of us. Every day can feel the same minus a good routine.
My two Labs wake up at the same time every day wanting to be fed, let out and go for a walk. If I ignore them, they will bark and make sure they get my attention.
My two school-aged boys have expressed their dismay at the fact that I still wake them up at the same time, require them to take showers and eat breakfast (and make their beds) before their virtual learning day begins.
Our young children are no different. In fact, they thrive when they have a routine to follow. It helps them to predict and understand what is happening next. This is especially true for children who cannot tell time. Routines makes us all feel safe and secure.
How can you as a parent help your child establish a routine?
Here are a few tips:
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Wake up at the same time every day, eat breakfast together as a family, shower, get dressed and prepare for the day(even if it is in your sweats) as you normally would do.
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Write your schedule and routine down on a piece of paper. Hang it up for everyone to see and follow. It might be helpful to draw pictures for young children.
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Create a learning or workspace for you and your child.
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Set up learning stations around your home (blocks, Legos, puzzles, art area, reading, pretend play, water play and writing center).
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Give children time to transition from one activity to the next. Many parents use a timer or the five-minute warning.
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Take time out! If your child is melting down, tell them to “take five” and breathe. Tell them to let you know when they are ready to talk or return to the activity. Make sure there are consequences when they are not doing what they are supposed to do.
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Prepare for nap and bedtime. Take a few minutes to create an environment that helps your child relax and unwind (close the blinds, turn off the lights, play soft music, read a story together or do yoga). If your child does not want to nap or go to bed, make a “quiet activity bag” that is filled with quiet activities they can do in their bed.
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·Go outside and get some energy out! Children need lots of opportunities to be active inside and out. Give them time to run, walk, jump, bike and play every day.
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Ask them to help you make the bed, do the laundry, prepare meals, feed the dog or cat and clean up around the house. Everyone has to do their part!
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Create special activities that you all enjoy doing together.
Hang in there! We will all get through this COVID-19 time together, and these routines may help!
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