Working with routines has been the foundation of the upbringing of our children. Not only does it benefit the children, I experience a huge difference when there are moments of no routine due to all the things that are happening around us. Having a routine with your newborn can give you a sense of control. You can think “as long as I follow the routine, everything will be fine”. That is partially true. When you follow a strict routine and your newborn reacts differently one morning, you know that it is something other than the routine. This will take away doubt and during a period when all you do is doubt because you are a new parent, a strict routine will be a blessing.
The foundation of routine with newborns
The concept of routine in parenting is grounded in the belief that children thrive in structured and predictable environments. Establishing a routine involves setting a fixed schedule for activities such as feeding, bathing, and sleeping. These routines can provide a sense of security and stability for both parents and children.
While it may appear that newborns have minimal wants and needs, they, in fact, benefit from a routine. Newborns, especially, rely on a consistent schedule to meet their basic needs. Here's an example of a daily routine for a newborn:
6 am: Feeding, followed by sleep
8 am: Bath or shower, feeding, followed by sleep
12 pm: Feeding, followed by sleep
3 pm: Feeding, playtime, followed by sleep
6 pm: Feeding, followed by sleep in a dark room
Throughout the night, feedings occur every three hours or as per your newborns demands. This structured routine serves as a guiding framework for parents, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood.
The benefits of routine for children
Routine offers a multitude of advantages for children, contributing significantly to their overall development. Let's explore some of the most benefits:
Security and predictability: Children find comfort in knowing what to expect. A well-established routine creates a sense of predictability, allowing children to anticipate events and transitions with ease. This security promotes emotional well-being and reduces anxiety.
Consistent sleep patterns: Adequate sleep is vital for a child's physical and cognitive development. A structured sleep routine encourages healthy sleep patterns, ensuring that children get the rest they need to thrive.
Improved behaviour: Routine fosters a sense of discipline and responsibility in children. When they understand the expectations associated with each part of their day, they are more likely to exhibit positive behaviour..
Emotional regulation: Routine aids in emotional regulation. When children know what to expect, they are better equipped to manage their emotions. This, in turn, reduces instances of tantrums and meltdowns.
Independence and confidence: Routine empowers children to take ownership of their daily activities. As they become more self-reliant in following the routine, their confidence grows.
Adaptation to Change: A consistent routine helps children adapt to change more easily. This adaptability proves invaluable, especially in situations where families face relocation or significant life transitions.
Maintaining routine with welcoming a newborn in the family
As families grow and evolve, so do their routines. One of the challenges that parents often encounter is adjusting the routine when introducing a new sibling into the family. This transition requires careful planning and patience.
To make the shift smoother for everyone involved, parents can consider the following strategies:
Clear communication: It is essential to communicate with the older children no matter how old they are. Explain the reasons behind the adjustments and involve them in the decision-making process where possible.
Visual aids: Create visual aids, such as a schedule board, to help children understand the new routine. This visual representation can make it easier for them to adapt to the changes. Getting the children involved with making this board is great fun.
Consistency: While some aspects of the routine may need to be modified, strive to maintain consistency in key areas, such as meal times, nap times, and bedtime. Consistency provides a sense of stability during transitions.
Involvement: Encourage the older child to participate in caring for the new sibling. This involvement can create a sense of responsibility and help them adjust to their changing role within the family.
Flexibility: Understand that flexibility is crucial during times of transition. Be prepared to make adjustments as needed and adapt the routine to suit the evolving needs of your family.
The long-term impact of routine
The influence of routine extends far beyond the early years of childhood. Research suggests that children who grow up with structured routines tend to develop important life skills that serve them well into adulthood. Let's explore some of the long-term effects of a consistent routine:
Discipline and responsibility: Routine instils a sense of discipline and responsibility. Adults who were exposed to structured routines as children often exhibit greater self-discipline and are more accountable for their actions.
Reduced stress: Knowing what to expect in various aspects of life reduces stress and anxiety. Adults who were raised with routines are better equipped to manage stress and adapt to change.
Healthy habits: Routine often involves the establishment of healthy habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and consistent sleep patterns. These habits lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle in adulthood.
Emotional well-being: The emotional stability and resilience developed through routine can have a lasting impact on mental health. Adults with a strong routine background tend to experience fewer mood swings and greater emotional well-being.
Balancing routine with self-care
While routine undeniably offers numerous advantages, it's important for parents to strike a balance between adhering to a strict routine and prioritising self-care. This aspect of parenting is often overlooked, and yet, it is of paramount importance.
Parents should remember the analogy of the oxygen mask in an airplane. In case of an emergency, you are advised to secure your own mask before assisting others. Similarly, taking care of oneself should be a top priority for parents. When parents neglect their own well-being, it can lead to burnout, stress, and diminished capacity to provide the best care for their children.
Recognising the need for self-care and finding ways to incorporate it into the daily routine is crucial. Whether it's setting aside time for exercise, pursuing a hobby, or simply enjoying a moment of solitude, parents must carve out moments for self-renewal.
In conclusion, routine plays a pivotal role in parenting, offering stability, predictability, and a host of developmental benefits for children. It is a powerful tool that fosters emotional well-being, discipline, and essential life skills. However, parents should be mindful of striking a balance between routine and self-care, ensuring that their own well-being remains a top priority. As children grow and evolve, so too should their routines.
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