School is out, but routine is still in

Kids never thought they would make it to summer, and parents were thinking the same — maybe. As a parent, you are relieved to not have the morning rush to get breakfast, dress appropriately for the day, make sure everyone has their school materials, prepare that favorite lunch, do hair, brush teeth, and so on and so on.

Even though parents and children are ready for a break from the school rush, the routines many parents create during the school year are very important for a child’s development, health and mental wellbeing. Creating a family summer routine will continue to foster the benefits that routines have for children and adolescents.

Daily routines are a way of teaching younger children healthy habits, like brushing their teeth and washing their hands before a meal. Children and young people tend to feel safer when they live in an organized and predictable environment. Having a routine of house chores helps children and adolescents develop a sense of responsibility. Time management and basic work skills are instilled as a result of routines in the home. In adolescence, regular home routines help children “feel looked after” and can relieve the stress of changes they are experiencing.

“Routines have health benefits, too; children in families with regular routines have fewer respiratory infections than those in routine-free homes.” This is probably due to the healthy habits children have learned. In addition, our body clocks are set by daily routines. Staying with a bedtime routine helps young people’s bodies know when to sleep. Sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy body and brain function, maintaining the immune system and for improving energy levels, learning and concentration.
 

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