Benefiting from Daily Routines

If you are having difficulty getting your child to do things like go to bed, do homework, or get ready for school, it is time to put an end to the fighting and the hassles! Believe it or not, while having established routines may seem boring and restrictive, kids actually thrive on well-constructed routines, and they are often the key to positive parenting!

Positive Parenting: How Routines Can Help

Most adults already know that life is all about routines. There are duties and responsibilities that we need to live up to each day. In order to fulfill those roles, we usually live our lives by sticking to routines. Routines help keep up us on track, successfully meet our obligations, and streamline the processes of living. The same thing holds true for tweens! Your teen or tween can greatly benefit from having routines that help them focus on everything from getting up and ready in the morning, to meals, and even bedtime. When it comes to establishing routines, consider these parenting tips:

• Discuss the importance a routine with your child. Let him know you are going to establish some routines, and that each routine is in place to help him be more successful.
• Use a behavior chart. Behavior charts can help take the arguing and power struggles out of routines. Just set up appropriate reward and consequence charts and put the power of these tools in your child's hands.
• Be consistent with charts and routines. Consistency is important. Sure, maybe routines will slide a bit on vacation, but, in general, you need to be as consistent as possible.
• Be patient with your child. If he is not accustomed to having routines, it may take him some time to get used to them. Be persistent, and things will soon fall into place.
• Be a good role model. As mentioned, adults have routines, but kids probably don't pay attention or notice them. Point out your routines to your child, and he will be more likely to adapt to his own routines.

Positive Praise for Kids

Establishing routines will mean that you have to remain positive and use praise along the way. Kids need to know when they are doing a good job. Positive reinforcement is the simplest and most effective way to get your teens to start to and stick with a new routine. With some consistency, routines will become second nature!