Create a Daily Routine

We’re running late, put on your shoes, brush your hair, hurry up! Sounds familiar, right? Imagine if your morning didn’t have to start like this. Coming up with a simple, daily routine will eliminate the morning madness and stress that it brings to the entire family and likely continues for the rest of the day. A daily routine that is consistent and easy will help children perform better in school, behave better, and the whole family will be less stressed and happier.

A morning habit is a great way to get the day off to a great start. It can be as simple as:

• brush hair & teeth
• get dressed
• make bed
• eat breakfast
• have a great day at school!

To keep everyone on track create a chart that everyone can follow and post it in the bathroom and bedroom. For little kids use pictures.

Organizing some things the night before will also make for a smooth morning. Pack the soccer bag and make lunches the night before. Check out this leak proof, BPA-free, reusable Yumbox lunch box to save even more hassle.

Preparing a chart requires time and organization to start, but it saves time and energy in the long run. Routine charts will help establish good time and self-management skills.  Children develop responsibility, learn independence, and structure when they have a system to help guide them. Tip: make it fun for the little ones by using different colored markers or stickers to note which items that are complete.

It’s easy to stray from the routine once it’s created, but stick with it. Do what you are supposed to be doing when you are supposed to be doing it. Distractions are everywhere but having it charted out will help you and your family stay focused.

As for you… spend a few minutes each night organizing your to-do list for the following day. Developing a short list of tomorrow’s most important tasks while they’re on your mind can save you hours the next day.

A little planning and a fun chart is a great way to start your day off on the right foot!

Photo credit: (top) Image courtesy of  stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net (bottom) Image courtesy of  nuttakit / FreeDigitalPhotos.net