Why Are Family Routines Important in Early Childhood? 

Children at their early age are still trying hard to make sense of the world around them. They haven’t gained enough experience to see how the world works. As a result, they tend to see the world as unsafe, chaotic and unpredictable. 

The importance of family routines 

That’s why family routines are important. These routines reduce the chaos and make the world a bit more predictable for children. These routines also create a structure that helps children set their expectations. 

Family routines also help children feel safe and secure even during significant changes in the family. These can also help children better cope with huge changes and transitions such as moving into a new house. With routines, children can still feel the order and structure in the world around them. 

Family routines also help reduce stress. Children always know what’s about to happen and they somehow feel that everything’s in order. With less stress, children are able to make their immune systems stronger. That’s because chronic stress can weaken the immune system and thereby affect children’s overall development. 

Family routines also help children develop healthy habits and set their body clocks. Their minds and bodies will be better able to know when it’s about time to fall asleep. This regular sleep pattern can help with their rapid physical and cognitive development. 

How routines can also help parents 

Parents also benefit from family routines. Although sometimes it feels monotonous, routines and structure can reduce our stress as adults. We will feel more in control of our life and situation as a result. This can give us extra physical and mental energy that we can devote to our children because our minds are freed up from extra worries and stress. 

Because of family routines such as storytelling time at night, this can also help parents relax and feel that they’re doing a great job. They know that they’re being responsible because they’re setting a dedicated time for their children. The undivided attention that resulted from routines and schedule can help children better feel the love, attention and care from their parents.