During a time of crisis when so many things are unknown, one of the things that provide comfort for children is a routine and schedule.  Creating a routine and schedule will provide structure and predictability for children which in turn will provide them a sense of safety and reassurance.  Routines also promote positive mental and physical health.  Some helpful points to creating a routine and schedule include:

  • Have a good and consistent wake up time and bedtime.  Try if possible to stick as close to the school schedule as this allows their physiological system to maintain a healthy balance between activity and rest time.
  • Work together with your child in building the schedule and review expectations as you are both working on it.
  • Start slow. Try not to over-commit. Set aside a quiet work space for your child to do work
  • Allow for snack and natural  breaks
  • Include opportunities to be outside or to be physical
  • Encourage hobbies or creative outlets in the schedule.  This ‘new normal’ gives your child an opportunity to explore things they might not have had time to explore previously
  • Have opportunities to connect with friends and family virtually
  • As a family, incorporate some coping activities such as controlled breathing exercises or mindful activities
  • Include some family time or one on one time together, even if it’s just for 20 minutes.  Although  everyone is under one roof for an extended period of time, doesn’t mean that children are getting the same interactive and attention time.

Remember that it’s completely normal to feel stressed out and frustrated and, that in the beginning it is normal to get a bit of (or a lot of) push back, a bit of tears and some shaking of heads It is just a sign to go back to the drawing table together to re-evaluate what’s not working and what will work.  Some days schedules work fantastic and you feel brilliant, and other days your may be scratching your head wondering where the day went! All that is normal in the ‘new normal’.  Be gentle with yourself and know we will get through this, one socially-distancing day at a time.