Daily Schedule

Routine is so important for Children it creates stability and they know what is expected of them. When creating your children's daily schedule keep these things in mind. First, fill in the must do's, anything with a set time (naps, meals, preschool). Remember to add play dates and time for yourself into your routine. Try not to overwhelm your children with activities. Two a week is enough to give them and you some variety in your schedule but not too much that they feel overwhelmed. After reading the book Toddler Wise by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam I loved the schedule they layed out. Here are some things they talked about.

Time your child needs every day:

Independent play- Mom chooses the toy, child plays alone on blanket or in room. When doing blanket time place the child on the blanket with a few toys. Set the time and go in to the next room where you are in earshot but not visible. If the child leaves the blanket place him/her back on with little or no interaction. Then once the timer goes off remove the blanket right away and have some special one on one time.

Structured Play- Mom structures the play and teaches something.
Structured Play Time With Siblings-

Playtime with Mom- Each child gets special one on one time.

Free Play- Child chooses toys within reason, in the playroom, toys outside etc. (Supervised)

Sibling Time- This can mix with the above, but keep in mind that children need some alone time as much as you do.

Video Time- Plan this "short" amount of time during the most stressful time of the day such as while you are making dinner.

Don't feel overwhelmed by this list, these activities can be anywhere between 5 minutes to a half an hour depending on your child's age and attention span. When starting independent time begin with five minutes and use a kitchen timer. The child will make the connection that once the timer goes off they are allowed to leave their bedroom or blanket. Then after he/she has been successful then you can extend the time. Start off slow. Try to make the first hour of your day a steady routine. Once you have been consistent for a few days then add a routine for the next hour. Continue until you have a good daily routine.