Importance of a Routine

All families need some type of routine to establish normalcy, a way to get things done and a sense of security. Children often fear the unknown – whether it’s the broccoli on their plate – or a big life change like moving to a different house or gaining a new sibling. While change is a learning opportunity, it can also be stressful for children. A normal routine brings comfort and consistency to a child’s life.
The words schedule and routines evoke two different types of feeling.  The A-type, organized mom feels like it’s her cup of tea.  The free-spirited, spontaneous mom wants to run far, far away.  But no matter how we may feel about schedules, there are many reasons kids need routines.

Imagine yourself walking through a city.  You’re looking around, enjoying the sights.  A new Honda Odyssey just drove by, and you noted that you liked the soft gray color.  You look up at the tall brick wall that displayed the work of art of a local spray paint artist.  You smell something deliciously warm and slightly sweet with a note of cinnamon, you look around and notice a new German bakery just feet away with a “Grand Opening” sign above the front door. 

Now imagine yourself walking through the same city, the same Honda driving by, the same brick wall nearby and the same bakery just feet away.  Except you’re blindfolded.  You can’t enjoy any of it.  The sound of the driving cars scares you. You don’t know if you are safe, standing where you are.  You begin walking, and you run into the pretty brick wall.  And even though the smell from the bakery intrigues you, you don’t know where to go to find it.

Sure, there may be someone there to lead you through the chaos, but you’re not enjoying the walk because you don’t know what’s happening around you.

Kids without routines are the same.  When they don’t know what’s happening and what to expect next, they’re scared, insecure, and emotional.  

Daily routines might include:
•    The time to get ready in the morning
•    Bath times, mealtimes, naptimes and bedtimes
•    Housework, cooking and cleaning schedules
•    Play time, family time and outdoor play
When you include meaningful and important elements into your family life, you’re letting your child know what’s important.
In this video, Mrs. Gita Tuli; principal of Saraswati Bal Mandir, Naraina Vihar tells us about the importance of a routine.