| One of the best things we can teach our | | | | breakfast. 5. Grab his backpack, give mom |
| children is to be organized. This will help | | | | and dad a hug and off to school he goes. |
| them learn to take care of the important | | | | |
| things first, get in a routine and make good | | | | This routine has helped us ensure he is out |
| use of their time. As a family you can sit | | | | the door and will arrive at school on time. |
| down and look at the areas of life that cause | | | | |
| you the most stress. Often this can be fixed | | | | It is very significant that once you have |
| with a little communication and a plan of | | | | established a daily set of activities that |
| action. | | | | you and your child stick to them. While there |
| | | | are times when you will need to be flexible, |
| This will reduce the stress levels around the | | | | you should always stick to the routine |
| home. Your child may not need every area of | | | | whenever possible. Over time, your child will |
| their life on a detailed schedule, but some | | | | be able to see and understand how this keeps |
| of the bigger things such as homework, sports | | | | everyone's life running a little smoother. |
| and helping out around the house would | | | | |
| greatly benefit from a schedule. | | | | A big key to keep your child encouraged in |
| | | | their daily routine is to discuss their |
| One way to help your child get organized is | | | | success. Pat them on the back for a job well |
| to decide what areas should be addressed | | | | done. This will keep them focused and |
| first. This will teach your child the value | | | | interested in doing a good job when they |
| of time and that work comes before play. | | | | realize mommy and daddy notice their efforts. |
| | | | |
| Create a routine and stick to it. Teach your | | | | Keep the lines of communication open with |
| child to create a routine such as what he/she | | | | your child, as it is vital, that your child |
| should do once they are up and getting | | | | can talk to you about their daily routine. |
| dressed for school. | | | | Stay involved with your child as they will |
| | | | still need your help and support along the |
| For example, my son's daily routine during | | | | way. Find out what is working well and what |
| the school week is: | | | | can be done better as a family. Make |
| | | | adjustments as needed to ensure no one person |
| 1. Make his bed 2. Brush his teeth and wash | | | | is being overloaded. |
| his face. 3. Get dressed for school. 4. Eat | | | | |