Having a set schedule or routine can benefit your family in many ways. Most kids (and adults) thrive on “knowing” what comes next. Schedules and routines provide a sense of security for young kids. They also help kids develop self-discipline and self-confidence because they are completing tasks on their own (or trying to). Creating a family schedule/routine will depend on the ages of your kids.

Hold a family meeting and ask your kids what types of things they need to do when they wake up and what to do before they go to bed. Asking their input will encourage them to stick to the schedule because they helped plan it! Although schedules and routines are extremely helpful, it’s good to remember that life happens sometimes. There will be days that stuff comes up and that is OKAY. Talk to your kids before their schedule changes. This will help eliminate any behaviors due to being out of their routine.

While planning is important, so is being flexible. When life happens, your kids are watching your reaction. Life is not perfect and it’s important we teach our kids to roll with the punches. When plans fall through take the time to explain that it’s okay things didn’t go as planned. Yes it might be frustrating but what an amazing teachable moment.