One of the hallmarks of well-functioning families is that they operate according to routines that create security and order in their everyday lives. However, it is important to emphasize that the introduction and operation of routines not only make life easier, but also strengthen family ties.
Why are routines important?
Routines help give structure and predictability to our days. It is especially important for children to know what to expect because it gives them a sense of security. In addition, routines reduce stress and conflict because everyone knows what to do and the daily schedule.
The most important routines
- Morning routine : The start of the day sets the mood for the whole day. A well-established morning routine helps everyone get ready on time and leave home in a good mood. This may include waking up, brushing your teeth, getting dressed and having breakfast together.
- Evening routine : The evening routine promotes restful sleep and preparation for the next day. It is important for children that bedtime always happens at the same time and includes relaxing activities such as bathing, reading stories or quiet conversation.
- Housework routine : Establishing a housework routine ensures that the household stays in order and that everyone does their part. Sharing the tasks not only makes it easier to do the housework, but also creates a sense of responsibility in the children.
The basic rules for creating routines
- Consistency : The key to the effectiveness of routines is consistency. It is important to do the activities at the same time every day or in the same order so that all members of the family get used to it and feel safe.
- Flexibility : While consistency is important, routines should also be flexible. From time to time, unexpected events may occur that upset the usual order. In such cases, let's be flexible and find solutions to deal with the changes.
- Joint discussion : When creating the routines, we involve all members of the family. Let's discuss together who has what tasks and preferences, and try to create a routine that suits everyone.
Practical advice
- Weekly planning : Every Sunday evening, sit down with the family and plan the coming week. In such cases, we can discuss important events, the schedule of household chores and possible changes. This will help everyone be prepared for the week.
- Morning preparation : To avoid the morning rush, prepare the next day's clothes and school equipment the night before. So you can start the day with less stress and haste in the morning.
- Family time : Have family time once a week when we do some activity together, such as going on a hike, playing board games or watching movies. This strengthens the family bond and creates pleasant memories.
- Free time : Make time for rest and relaxation every day. It is important that the daily routine is not only about obligations, but also has room for fun and recharge.
Establishing and following routines contributes greatly to the creation of family harmony in the long term. They help everyone know what to expect, reduce stress, and allow more time for shared experiences and relaxation. If we consciously create and maintain routines, family life will be more balanced and happier.
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How do we talk about this with our children?
We already know that establishing and maintaining routines is essential for the harmony of family life. But how do we explain to children why these daily habits are important? And how do we do this according to different age groups?
The importance of routines for children
Routines help children feel safe and make sense of the world around them. They make the days predictable, reduce anxiety and promote the development of good habits. In addition, routines help children take responsibility and become more independent.
How do we explain it to different age groups?
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
At this age, children are still very attached to the daily rhythm and like repetitive activities. We explain to them the importance of routines with simple words and playful methods.
- Storytelling and play : Let's tell stories where the characters follow the daily routine. For example, a teddy bear who brushes his teeth every night and listens to a story before going to bed.
- Visualization : Take pictures or use stickers for daily activities and post them in a visible place. This way, children can easily follow what comes next.
Elementary school children (6-10 years)
Elementary school children are already able to understand cause-and-effect relationships and can better participate in the creation of routines.
- Discussion : Explain why routines are important. For example: "We go to bed at the same time every night so that we can be rested and do well in school the next day."
- Involvement : Ask them to help you plan your daily routines. For example, let's make the morning preparation list together, which they can check off.
Teens (over 11 years)
Teenagers are pretty independent now, but sometimes they need reminders and guidance. It is important to respect their independence while supporting them in maintaining routines.
- Open Communication : Discuss the benefits of the routines with them and ask their opinion. For example, "How do you think we could make mornings run more smoothly?"
- Independence Support : Give them the freedom to create their own routines, but help if they need it. For example, create a study plan or training plan together.
Specific advice
- Joint planning : Sit down with the children and make a daily or weekly plan. It can be a simple table or a colorful poster that we display on the wall.
- Reward system : Use a reward system for younger children. For example, we can give you a sticker for every well-completed daily routine, and after a certain number of stickers you can get a small reward.
- Flexible routines : While routines are important, don't forget that sometimes you need to be flexible. If a special event or holiday disrupts the usual routine, let's talk to the children that it's okay, and then we'll go back to the usual routines.
- Setting a positive example : Let's set an example with our own routines. If children see that we follow our own routines consistently, they will be more likely to follow our example.
Establishing and understanding routines with children is not always an easy task, but it has significant benefits in the long run. It helps to make family life more harmonious and contributes to children's sense of security and sense of responsibility.
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