Pattie Carroll, a human development and relationships educator at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains why routines are essential to supporting pre-schoolers in regulating their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours.
Routines provide children with a sense of security and control over their environment. When children know what to expect at specific times of the day, they experience pride in being able to perform everyday tasks independently. Essentially, they can take charge of their own welfare.
Routines provide a foundation for independence in diverse skills like feeding, hand-washing, teeth-brushing, and getting dressed. These key steps in development can be achieved when children learn them as part of routines.
Adults can remind children of what is happening next in the routine to support them in transitioning more easily between activities (e.g., “after we wash our hands, we will have lunch” or “after we change into our pyjamas, will brush our teeth”).
Also, caregivers can post pictures of daily activities on a clock face so that children know what to expect at each time of day.
Consistent routines provide children with the comfort of knowing when it is time to play, nap or snack, allowing them to practice self-control.
Learn more about the benefits of predictable routines to young children here.
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