Dr. Louise Davis, extension child and family development specialist at Mississippi State University, said routines are especially important for young children. When children have schedules for what they do on a daily basis, they become accustomed to those routines, and they expect to do those activities every day. At the beginning of a school year, young students may feel overwhelmed by new responsibilities. Davis said having regular times set aside can help children accomplish things, like homework, with minimal anxiety. Some time to wind down or take a break after school often helps children prepare to do other activities in the evening.
Routines help families complete daily responsibilities in an organized way.
Having a routine doesn't mean that things have to be done at the exact same time every day. Routines can also prevent behavioral problems. When children know exactly what is expected of them, they are more likely to do it. Parents should strive to make their expectations appropriate to children's ages and abilities. As children mature, they should be allowed more opportunities for freedom.