A routine is an instructional strategy developed to increase the level of participation in activities for students who require consistency and repetition in order to learn. Any activity can be designed to be a routine. An activity is not a routine unless it meets the following criteria. There is a clear signal to the student that the activity is starting. The steps of the activity occur in the same sequence.
Assistance is given the same way each time until the student is ready for a lower level of prompt.
There is a clear signal to the student that the activity is finished. Here is a sample activity routine that meets the above criteria. Get spoon from calendar box. Student extends hand toward spoon then hand over hand assistance for picking up spoon. Take spoon to eating area.