Routines are important because they give children a sense of security and control over their environment. Children learn what to expect at various times in the day and as they begin to participate in these routines, they will experience a sense of control and satisfaction at being able to perform part of or all of the tasks associated with the routine.
Routines are also effective in managing negative behaviour particularly when it comes to dealing with transitions into new tasks. Routines allow children to emotionally prepare for changes that are to come. For example, a child will know that certain things happen as he gets ready for bed and as he progresses through the routine, he will also know what is expected of him when the task is completed. Routines provide a context for learning to take place. Routines help children learn how their world is organised and what they need to do in order to interact successfully in that world (Sussmen, 2011).
In order for routines to be a practical source for learning you need to make sure that you have enough time to take each task within the routine slowly and you need to be sure that you discuss each individual task with the children (Linden, 2000). Take time out to write your routines down and discuss them which your colleagues, children and their families (Linden 2000).
Think of ways you can continue or leverage learning from a routine. Here are some examples:
- implement written literacy elements into a routine, by including words to label/describe routines, children can use the predictive understanding of their routines to learn new words;
- use routine and maintenance times as opportunities to explore conversation and interaction with children such as during nappy change and meal times.
- discuss routines with children and ask them how their routines could be changed, extended or improved;
- look for opportunities to extend or challenge children in the routine, such as ways to take on more responsibility or complete more difficult tasks.
Look for new routine opportunities which children and educators can use on a daily basis to explore, discuss question and investigate
Routines are displayed in picture format of what actually happens in the room
(the rhythm of the room)
Eg. washing hands before snack, snack time, circle time, outdoor play
