Routines are good for children. A regular routine lets children know what to expect so they feel safe and secure. Keep a daily routine for bedtime, waking up, eating, shopping, bathing, playing and other things you do.
An erratic meal schedule, for example, can confuse children. They may eat too much because they don't know when food will be available again. If your child wants to play during mealtime, tell him or her, “It's mealtime now. You don't have to eat, but you do have to sit with the family.”
Once you have planned a routine, tell your children about it. Remind them what you will be doing next and praise them when they learn the routine.
Even though routines are a good idea, remember to be flexible when necessary. If your child is having a bad day, feel free to alter your plans, but get back to your routine as soon as possible.
With you by their side, your children will grow healthy, active and happy.