The Importance of Routines for Young Children

Children thrive in a structured and predictable environment.  Routines like drop-off and pick-up, meals, naps, and diapering/toileting need to occur at regular intervals each day and be handled the same by each caregiver. This structure can create a sense of safety and security for each young child in the classroom.  Parents and childcare providers both need to understand that, even when a schedule is established, working with young children can mean that the schedule must change based on the needs of the child.  This means that each classroom schedule needs to be structured yet flexible.
In order to establish daily routines, most early childhood classrooms follow a basic daily schedule. The schedule can help to ensure the consistency that young children need and also help teachers encourage all areas of development by planning a wide range of activities. It's helpful to think of a daily schedule as a guide which is responsive to children and teachers. Flexible schedules still give the classroom an opportunity to focus on moments when children discover something that interests them.  When a teacher creates a beneficial schedule, it should find a balance for children, between group times and individual play, quiet and energetic play, and indoor and outdoor play.
Transition times can create the difference between a calm and coherent classroom compared to a chaotic group of children running throughout the room. Well-planned transition periods are successful when teachers plan enough time for the children to transition from one activity to another and the new activity is prepared for the children.

        Some children require additional preparation for a transition, so it can be helpful for the teacher to offer several reminders as the transition approaches. Children are much more likely to cooperate during a transition if they have time to complete their activity first.  Teachers can also make the transition process smoother by encouraging children who are doing what is asked of them and using positive language to describe the new activity.
Schedules benefit young children in several different ways:

1. Routines eliminate power struggles:  Instead of a child feeling like he or she is being bossed around, the routine establishes that this is what we do at this time of day.
2. Routines help children cooperate:  When a child understands in advance that her turn is about to be over, then she is much more likely to share with a peer.
3. Routines help children learn to take charge of their own activities:  When a child consistently understands their responsibilities (brushing teeth, putting toys away, etc.) then he can master that skill and feel a sense of accomplishment.
4. Children learn to “look forward” to expected activities:  This is a huge step in learning about planning and patience.
5. Regular routines help children to develop their own schedule:  This assists children in having a regular sleep schedule!
6. Routines can help parents and teachers to share special moments with young children:  Routine-based care (the time you spend with your child during bath time, bed time, or meal time) can be some of the best times for developing language skills or seeing your child achieve new goals.
7. Routines help establish consistent expectations:  If a child understands that every night she must brush her teeth before bed, then it is less likely to be a fight to get her to do that task.  It is expected EVERY night, so it is a part of our daily routine.