Simple Routines for Busy Parents -Supporting Kids with Additional Needs at Home

Creating a nurturing environment for children with disabilities is both a challenge and a rewarding journey. Establishing routines can significantly help provide stability, which supports emotional and cognitive growth. For busy parents, implementing straightforward routines at home may feel overwhelming. However, with some creative adjustments, it can seamlessly become part of your daily life.

In this article, we will outline how routines can benefit children with disabilities and provide practical tips for parents who feel stretched thin.

The Importance of Routines

Routines create a sense of predictability, giving children a secure environment in which they can thrive. For kids with disabilities, predictable structures can decrease anxiety and improve behavioural regulation. According to a study, children with established daily routines report a 25% reduction in anxiety-related issues.

Additionally, routines nurture essential life skills. Regular practice of getting dressed or brushing teeth at specific times allows children to master these everyday activities over time. Through consistency and structure, children can gain confidence and independence, which is crucial for their emotional well-being.

Start Small: Quick Wins for Busy Parents

Establishing routines does not have to be an elaborate process. Parents can start with small, manageable steps that make a big difference. Here are a couple of strategies to consider:

1. Morning Routine

   Kick off your day with a consistent morning routine. Set a specific wake-up time, followed by activities such as breakfast, brushing teeth, and getting dressed. Using a visual chart with images can help children understand the sequence of activities. This way, they know what to expect, reducing morning meltdowns.

   
   

2. Snack and Meal Times

   Create regular snack and meal times. By sticking to specific eating times, you can minimise chaos and instil anticipation in your children. This also offers a priceless opportunity to build social skills, as families can bond over shared meals. Research shows that families that eat together have a 30% better communication rate, enhancing family dynamics.

   
   

3. Wind Down Routine

   Establish a calming bedtime routine to help your child relax. Activities like reading a book, dimming the lights, or engaging in simple mindfulness exercises can serve as gentle signals that bedtime is approaching. Avoiding screen time before bed is a challenge, but it's worth it!

   
   

Incorporate Visual Supports

Visual supports can be incredibly effective for establishing routines, especially for children who might struggle with verbal communication. Crafting a visual schedule clarifies the day's expectations.

Consider using colourful charts or interactive apps designed for visual schedules. Pairing images with text helps children know what to expect, promoting a sense of independence as they start to follow routines on their own.

Use Playful Activities

Integrating playful learning into routines can make daily tasks enjoyable. Transform necessary chores into engaging experiences.

For example, you can make washing hands a mini-experiment where your child can enjoy exploring bubbles or turn tidying up into a fun race against the clock. This creates excitement around tasks and helps sustain your child's interest.

Transition and Flexibility

Flexibility is essential when it comes to routines. Children, particularly those who are already exhausted from their daily challenges, may require time to adjust to new schedules. They may have good days and tough days, so a flexible approach is vital.

Consider building in transition cues that allow for flexibility. For instance, if mealtime feels rushed one day, use a music timer to signal the shift from playtime to mealtime. This way, you can promote a calm atmosphere in the midst of chaos.

Collaborate with Professionals

If you feel particularly drained or unsure, reaching out to therapists can provide valuable support. At Malone Therapy, our occupational therapists can offer tailored strategies specific to your child’s needs, enhancing daily routines. We can even help you create a customised visual schedule to use at home. We can also guide you on how to integrate therapeutic activities into regular structures at home, which boosts growth and development.

If behaviour is a challenge, we encourage you to explore resources like the Triple P parenting program, which offers free online assistance tailored to empower families and foster emotional and cognitive development.

Celebrate Progress

Always take time to celebrate small victories! Acknowledging and rewarding children’s achievements within their routines encourages them to engage more willingly. Simple methods like using a sticker chart for completing their morning tasks or planning a fun family activity for finishing dinner on time can significantly enhance a child's motivation and emotional health. It might take a while to find a system that works, and you may even have to change it up fairly regularly, but it all helps.

Embracing the Journey

Establishing new routines can feel overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be complicated. Start small, use visual supports, incorporate play, remain flexible, and collaborate with professionals to create meaningful routines.

Remember, it's the consistent love and care behind these routines that empower your child and foster their development. So, take a moment to breathe, embrace the process, and cherish every beautiful moment along the way.