The importance of establishing a routine before kindergarten

The earlier your child learns to follow a routine, the easier it will be for them later on. Once they start kindergarten, they’ll be able to quickly adapt to their new schedule and environment. That’s why it’s recommended to introduce a routine at home as soon as possible. Of course, it’s up to you to decide when your child is ready.  
There are plenty of other reasons to implement routines at home. For instance, they can help your child do the following:

• Situate themselves in space and time
• Find ways to relieve stress
• Anticipate their next activity
• Be more organized
• Fall asleep more easily
• Remember important information
• Build confidence
• Etc.

Routines can be established at different times of the day. However, it’s important not to overload your child with too many routines. Why? Because they also need to learn how to be flexible and adapt to change. It’s a question of balance!
Consider creating a routine for certain situations and times of day:

• Morning (e.g., make your bed, eat breakfast, brush your teeth, get dressed)
• Before leaving for school or daycare (e.g., kiss the cat goodbye, put on your boots and coat, get your backpack)
• After arriving home (e.g., hang up your coat, wash your hands, go to the bathroom)
• Mealtime (e.g., wash your hands, put on an apron, set the table)
• Bedtime (e.g., take a bath, put on your pyjamas, brush your teeth, choose a bedtime story)
• After playtime (e.g., put away your toys, do a relaxation exercise)
• Before a car trip (e.g., choose a book for the ride, fasten your seatbelt, choose music)
• Etc.

Kids need time to get used to anything new, and a routine is no exception. Don’t expect your child to jump on board right away! To help them along, you can do the following:

• Ask your child’s opinion (e.g., “What do you want to do now? Would you rather brush your teeth before or after you get dressed?”).
• Build the routine gradually (e.g., start with two steps, then add more).
• Get your child to follow the routine systematically every day. Repetition is key!
• Be consistent. Once a routine is determined, you shouldn’t deviate from it. Of course, you can always adapt it later to suit your child’s changing needs.
• Use illustrations and display them in a suitable spot.
• Invent a rhyme to help your child remember each step.
• Celebrate your child’s efforts. Your encouragements will boost their self-esteem and motivation!
• Etc.