A Daily Schedule for Your Family When Stuck at Home

When the world outside seems uncertain, creating a structured daily schedule can bring a sense of normality and routine to your household. Here’s a suggested timetable to keep the whole family engaged and connected while stuck at home:

Morning:

8:00 AM – Family Breakfast
Start the day together with a hearty breakfast. This is a great time for everyone to share their plans for the day ahead.

9:00 AM – Morning Chores
Assign age-appropriate chores to each family member. This not only keeps the home tidy but also fosters a sense of responsibility.

9:30 AM – Learning Time
Set aside time for educational activities. Younger children might enjoy storytime or fun worksheets, while older children could focus on online learning or reading.

Afternoon:

12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Prepare a wholesome lunch together. Involve everyone in the kitchen—it can be a fun bonding experience!

1:00 PM – Creative Hour
Unleash creativity with arts and crafts, music, or cooking. This can be an excellent opportunity for each family member to explore their interests.

3:00 PM – Outdoor Play (or Indoor Exercise)
If weather permits, enjoy some fresh air in the garden or on a balcony. If not, indoor exercises like yoga or a family dance-off can be invigorating.

Evening:

5:00 PM – Family Dinner Prep
Get everyone involved in preparing dinner. Cook together and share recipes, trying new dishes from various cultures.

6:00 PM – Dinner and Family Time
Sit down together for dinner. Use this time to discuss the highlights of everyone’s day and connect on a deeper level.

8:00 PM – Wind Down
Choose a relaxing activity for the evening. This could be watching a family film, playing board games, or reading together before bedtime.

9:30 PM – Bedtime Routine
Establish a calming bedtime routine to help everyone unwind and prepare for sleep, setting the tone for another day of togetherness ahead.

With this structured schedule, your family can make the most of your time at home, fostering connections and creating lasting memories amidst the challenges.

Setting up a daily schedule for three children can initially seem daunting, but with a touch of organisation and flexibility, it can transform your home into a harmonious environment. As a Babywise Mum, you’ll want to create a routine that caters to the needs of each child while fostering a sense of security and predictability.

Start by mapping out a basic framework for the day, including wake-up times, meals, nap schedules, and bedtime. For younger children, particularly infants, adhering to the Babywise principles of feeding, awake time, and sleeping schedules will provide a solid foundation. For instance, aim to establish a consistent wake-up time for all the children, followed by a morning routine that includes breakfast and some quality playtime.

Incorporate specific time slots for focused activities, such as arts and crafts or reading, which can engage the older children while allowing you to tend to the younger ones. It’s crucial to include some downtime in the schedule – whether for independent play or quiet time – to recharge everyone’s batteries.

Flexibility is key; some days may require adjustments due to unexpected interruptions or mood shifts. Keep a visual schedule in a common area, using pictures and colour-coded sections for each child, which will help them understand the flow of the day and anticipate transitions.

Finally, involve your older children in the scheduling process. Allowing them to have a say in activities not only encourages cooperation but also fosters a sense of ownership over their daily routine. With a bit of planning and adaptability, setting up a daily schedule for three kids can become a seamless part of family life.

Why Kids Need Routine

Children thrive on routine; it provides a sense of security and predictability that helps them navigate their world. Establishing a structured daily schedule can reduce anxiety, promote better behaviour, and enhance their ability to focus. When children know what to expect, they feel more confident and can manage transitions more effectively. Routines also foster independence as kids learn to anticipate tasks and responsibilities.

How to Make a Visual Routine for Your Home

Creating a visual routine can be a fun and engaging way to help your child understand and follow their daily schedule. Start by identifying key daily activities, such as waking up, mealtimes, homework, and bedtime. Use bright colours and images to represent each activity—this could be photo cards, drawings, or even stickers—which can capture their interest and make the routine more approachable.

Once you’ve gathered your materials, organise them in a clear and accessible way. Consider using a poster board or a magnetic board in a prominent place, such as the kitchen or their bedroom. Arrange the images in chronological order, perhaps using Velcro so that children can move them around as tasks are completed. Encourage your child to interact with this visual aid, reinforcing the routine and giving them a sense of ownership over their daily schedule. With a visual routine in place, parents can provide gentle reminders while empowering children to meet their daily goals with confidence.