It can be a challenge to create a consistent daily schedule and routines. Hough (2019) describes the importance of recognizing the struggle. Children, like us, need predictable routines and a daily schedule of events and activities that remain consistent. This alleviates stress. To implement predictable routines, analyze the daily schedule. Note what happens throughout the daily schedule. Determine where there are problem areas and times that seem to go smoothly, as well as times of the day that are challenging. Implement a plan to address the problem areas. Observe what happens when the plan is implemented by collecting informal and/or formal data. Avoid roadblocks by responding to data. Make data-driven decisions. Make changes when needed to modify schedule and/or routines. Routines can promote an environment that feels safe, secure, and welcoming (CESEFEL, 2007; Perry, 2000).

Sources: Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning. (2007). Helping Children Understand Routines and Classroom Schedules. Retrieved from http://csefel.vanderbilt.edu/kits/wwbtk3.pdf

Hough, L. (2019) 5 Easy Steps to Helping Early Childhood Educators De Stress. Harvard Ed. Magazine. Retrieved from: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/ed/19/01/5-easy-steps-helping-early-childhood-educators-de-stress

Perry, B. (2000). Creating an emotionally safe classroom. Scholastic. Retrieved from https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/teaching-content/creating-emotionally-safe-classroom/