At Hospitality Health ER in Tyler, we know all too well that the first few months with a newborn are usually unpredictable and challenging for most parents. Creating a routine is not at the top of any parent’s list. However, once the child starts sleeping through the night and eating on a regular schedule, it’s a good time for parents to start creating routines for kids. This is typically around seven or eight months, depending on the child’s development.
Examples for a daily routine can consist of the following:
- Waking up at the same time each day, between 6am and 8am (later on the weekends).
- Eating meals at or around the same time each day (including snacks).
- Taking evening bath at the same time daily.
- Reading before bedtime.
- Making bedtime the same each evening, between 7pm and 8pm.
- Incorporating playtime, quiet time, and reading time into the schedule.
As the child gets older, they usually become accustomed to the routine, and it can make them feel safe and secure. In addition, having a routine helps parents reduce the challenge of waking up and going to bed. Bedtime can be a challenging time, but keeping the same schedule can help eliminate some of the stress. Children will know that after bathtime, they will get a bedtime story, and then they are more likely to go to bed without issues.
Creating Eating Routines for Kids:
To begin, create a feeding schedule that includes breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, and dinner. If a child is used to eating at a certain time of day, they are more likely to wait for snack time than to get very fussy. Bath and bedtime should also be put on a schedule. For most families, bath time is at night, as it helps to soothe and relax the child. A clean baby usually sleeps better.
As with anything, children develop at different stages, so for some, it may be around 12 or 24 months before they begin creating a routine. The key is sticking to the schedule and being consistent. There will always be exceptions that can throw off your routine, but returning to the schedule as soon as possible is key.
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