structure & routine
Children need a predictable and consistent daily schedule. The
positive effects of structure on a child’s
behavior is immeasurable.
Having a familiar routine builds confidence, decreases anxiety,
decreases fear and encourages cooperation as well as compliance.
When a child can anticipate future events it increases his sense of
control and independence. While it is difficult to maintain your
usual routine during the holidays or while traveling, try as much as
possible to keep the structure of the day as familiar as possible.
How to get Started? These tips are offered as advice
but remember that flexibility is always required when we are out of
our usual environment, like during trips and holidays. If you remain
flexible and adjust your expectations, it will be easier to maintain
a stress-free environment for your children.
Try to maintain times and sequence of events as
much as possible. For example, if a child is used to eating
breakfast as soon as he wakes up, stick to this even when traveling.
Try to keep sleep/nap times the same. It is OK
to skip naps now and then but if you skip too many days in a row,
expect your child’s behavior to reflect it.
Children feel more secure when they know what
to expect. Use visual schedules, pictures, drawings, etc. to cue a
child about what is happening.
Have a desired activity follow an undesired
activity. In order to be able to do the desired activity, the child
has to do the undesired activity. For example, "first we have to go
grocery shopping then we can go to the park”.
Present scheduled activities in a positive
manner but try not be overly rigid. Some flexibility is necessary.
Include free and play time - children need it!
Don’t expect your child to sit quietly the whole day at Grandma’s or
tolerate long shopping excursions with no break.
It is very important to allow time for
transitions between activities. When transitioning to another
activity, prepare the child ahead of time. For example: "it is
almost dinner time, so you will need to come in soon. Be ready to
put your toys away".
Build choices into the schedule so your child
can feel some control. Allowing the child to choose between 2
activities, such as "going to the park or to the store” or “do you
want to wear the red sweater or blue sweater” helps give him a sense
of control over his environment and build self-esteem.
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