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The Importance of Routines

There is a lot of research that supports the idea that routines and schedules help people feel secure and calm.  This is especially true for kids. When we know what to expect, we don’t worry as much.  Of course, not all of life can be scheduled…and even within a routine it is important to be flexible, but there are a lot of things that we can schedule! Your emotional and mental health will benefit from creating routines and schedules in appropriate areas of your life.

School is a perfect example of how creating schedules creates peace of mind.  After the first few weeks of school in September, most students notice that the anxiety or worry that they had about school in the beginning of September has gone down. That’s largely because they know what to expect and have gotten back to having routines and schedules after a summer of little routine.  We are now entering a time that is a lot like the beginning of September.  New routines and schedules will need to be created to help students and parents feel calm and less anxious.

Most teachers are suggesting that students do their work in the morning. In the afternoon they can do chores, go outside, do activities with their siblings etc.  Hanover School Division recommends the following: for students in grades K – 4 students should spend about 5 hours per week on school work.  That’s about an hour a day.  For students in grades 5 – 8, that number goes to 10 hours per week – which is about 2 hours per day.  I would also strongly suggest that parents help their kids set up a daily schedule during regular school days. Following regular schedules develops self discipline and creates a sense of stability in the home.  If you would like some help or ideas on how to do that, please let me know! I am here to help 🙂

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