Struggling to get your family on a schedule? Do you feel as though your family life is full of chaos? You are NOT ALONE! Believe me….I know all about chaos as a mother of five. I thought things were chaotic when I had 5 little ones running around the house (and tearing it up faster than I could put it together). Perhaps it feels like no one knows what is going on and everyone is tired, grouchy, and frustrated. A family schedule is a great way to keep everyone’s moods joyful. And we all love joyful, right? It can be hard to not know what’s going on, which is why a schedule is critical for maintaining a sense of peace in the home…and ensuring that everyone in the family is on the same page.
5 Tips for Getting Your Family on a Schedule
Know the Importance of a Routine
Kids need structure and routine; in fact, they thrive off of. The truth is, adults also thrive off a routine. It’s good for the soul. Routines help bring about rules that help keep everyone in check. Keep in mind that no two families are alike, so a routine that works for someone else, may not work for you. From firsthand experience, routines help everyone in the family keep their sanity in check.
Simplify Your Life
Before you get your family into any type of schedule, you will want to simplify your lives. Find out what everyone enjoys doing and what everyone dislikes participating in, from there you can make some decisions as to what you will cut and to what you will keep. A simpler life is always more fulfilling and a lot less chaotic for all involved.
Have A Rest Period
When it comes down to it, everyone needs some sort of rest period. Younger kids need some sort of nap time and a firm bed time. Adults can also have a period of rest to give their brains and bodies a break. When you are trying to figure out your routine, always consider having a rest period.
Be Consistent
One of the most important parts of getting your family on a schedule is being consistent. You need to make sure you are following through with the standards you put in place. Keep in mind that your kids are watching you, so if you are not consistent, they will easily know how to play you. Consistency wins every time, even when you do not want to be consistent.
Post Your Schedule
When kids get home from school, they may be sort of lost because all day they have been on a schedule. By putting up your family’s schedule, you are keeping everyone in check. If they are confused about what’s next, they can easily look and see what activity is coming up next. Post your family’s schedule in a place that everyone can see it. You can even make it look super pretty and stylish by using a dry erase board or a chalk board.
When it comes to getting your family on a schedule, it can be an easy process if you approach it the right way. Remember that consistency is a huge step in progress towards a schedule everyone learns to rely on.
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Check out my “TIPS FOR MOMS” category for more helpful parenting tips and tricks from a mom who’s been around the block a few times!
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