Why do we follow a daily routine?
Children thrive on organization and learn better with a daily routine. We provide a flexible and positive environment where children's needs can be met within a routine. It also provides children with a sense of identity, stability and consistency that is a cornerstone to growing up. A routine can help with transitions like separation from parents, nap times, meal times, toileting, field trips, and daily organization. If needed we provide a visual aid of our daily routine that can help children move throughout their day more comfortably knowing what to expect next. Flexibility is key, we don't have set times (other than meals and nap) but rather windows of time we explore in. This is also helpful for young baby's to schedule good eating habits and introduce them into a world of meals with solid foods. Any field trips to the library, park or other special outings will be done between 9am and 11:30am. Field trip days will be marked on the calendar and a reminder will be given the previous day. Permission slips are required for some field trips. Dependable patterns will make each day easier for the entire family both here and at home.
Here is an example of what our daily schedule looks like:
Free Play and Breakfast~ 8 am
Circle Time/ Music and Movement
Centers/ baby am naps
Art/ Manipulates ~ 10 am
Recess
Lunch ~ 12 pm
Rest Time ~ 1:00-3:00 pm
Snack ~ 3:30 pm
Recess/ Open Centers
Closed
Some great sites for organizing a routine at home!
http://simplekids.net/create-rhythm/
http://simplemom.net/20-tips-for-finding-your-routine-with-kids/
http://www.babywisemom.com/
