Starting back at school causes lots of stress for families. Getting kids organised and out the door can be a such hassle. Then there’s the stress of cranky kids at the end of the day and the bedtime battle before the whole cycle starts again.
With some simple preparation, you can get your kids into good school day routines to get them out the door on time with everything they need.
1. Break up the morning into smaller steps
There are usually 6 steps to get out the door in the morning. Most times you only have an hour to get it all done. Unless your child knows each step, and how long each one should take, you’re going to end up with problems getting them out the door.
Make the process easy for them. List each step in a logical order.
- Get out of bed
- Put on clothes
- Eat breakfast
- Make lunch
- Pack bag
- Brush teeth
For 6 steps to do in an hour, break up each step into 10 minute blocks.
2. Make up a Visual Chart
Children process pictures faster than words. Make up a simple chart with a picture for each step like this one:
3. Use Time to remind
Use pictures of a clock showing the time for each step. Put a clock in the same room as the chart. Even if they can’t read the time on a clock, they can see time passing when the hand moves. You can help by reminding ahead of time: “What do you do when the hand is on the 10?”
4. Steps within Steps
Does your child always get stuck at a step, like getting dressed or brushing their teeth? Steps like getting dressed or making lunch can be broken down into smaller steps. Once again you can make up a simple chart with a picture for each step, like this one:
5. Guide and Support
Routines take time and practice to learn. Guiding your child through each step will help them learn more quickly. Help them with reminders about the next step coming up. If they’re struggling to complete one step, check where they need help and guide them.
If you would like a free copy of a Morning Routine, contact EBM at info@effectivebehaviourmanagment.com.au
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