Children thrive on routines.
A consistent daily routine gives your child a sense of structure and familiarity, helping them feel confident and secure in what happens each day.
This confidence builds a foundation on which your child can grow and learn as they interact with other children and adults, progress through school and ultimately become adults themselves.
Most parents know that their child can benefit from having a consistent daily and/or bedtime routine.
There are many books and other resources designed to help parents get their child on a routine for bedtime, school time, or any number of other needs.
Unfortunately, the realities of parenthood (work, sleepless nights, planned activities, unexpected events) can make putting any precious free time towards establishing a routine seem impossible.
The good news is that you can help get your child on a quality, consistent routine in just a few easy steps:
- Determine your child's needs
- Figure out what activities you want in your child's routine
- Introduce the routine to your child
Take a few minutes to read through the following pages, and you will be on your way to a happier, better-behaved child.
We've organized this guide into the following pages to help you find the information you need:
- Key Components of a Good Routine
Discusses the components that every child's routine should have.
- First Things First – Bedtime
If your child does not already have a consistent bedtime routine, then start here.
- Routines for 6-12 Months
A sample routine for 6-12 month old children.
- Routines for 1-3 Years
Sample bedtime and daily routines for 1-3 year-olds.
- Routines for 3-5 Years
Sample bedtime and daily routines for 3-5 year-olds.
- Starting Your Routine (It's Easy!)
Take the frustration out of getting your child on a routine.