7 Steps to Create a Positive Morning Routine For Kids

Mornings, ah. Many families may be a battlefield of hurrying, complaining, and frantic scurrying. However, things don't have to be that way! Envision a world in which you wake up feeling content, cooperative, and laughing each morning. 

This guide reveals 7 easy yet effective ways to turn your hectic mornings into productive routines that set the tone for a joyful and successful day for you and your kids. Prepare to bid the stress farewell and welcome a happier beginning! ✨

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Benefits of establishing a morning routine in kids

A reliable morning routine may resemble a hidden treasure chest more than anything! Rich with advantages, it gives students the confidence and organization to face the world—or at least their schoolwork—head-on each morning. 

Recall that having a good morning routine has nothing to do with rigid regimens or military accuracy. It's about giving your child confidence, ensuring everyone is joyful and peaceful, and establishing a routine and pleasurable approach to start the day. 

✨ Happy exploring! ✨

“Routines support healthy social-emotional development in early childhood. In particular, children with regular routines at home have self-regulation skills, the building blocks of good mental health.” 💡Zero to Thrive

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How long should a morning routine for kids ideally last?

The ideal routine duration varies depending on your child's age, temperament, and even the dynamics of your household. For younger children, aim for 30 to 45 minutes; however, allow for individual requirements and the complexity of the activities.

Include your child, be upbeat, and never forget that the best time is when everyone has happy, stress-free mornings! Check out our advice on "what time should kids go to sleep" to learn more about sleep patterns and how to establish a peaceful morning routine.  

Check out our advice on newborn bedtime routine and 5-month-old bedtime routine to learn more about sleep patterns and how to establish a peaceful morning routine.

Curious for more? Click here; calming activities for kids

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How to create a morning routine for kids in 7 steps

Tired of the morning scramble? Transform chaos into calm with these 7 simple steps!

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Step 1: Set a consistent wake-up time

Establish a regular wake-up hour, especially on weekends, as consistency is crucial. Having a set wake-up time helps regulate your child's internal clock, making it easier for them to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day.

For more tips on setting a consistent wake-up time and maintaining a healthy sleep routine, check out our guides on bedtime routine for school age when your toddler is waking up too early.

Step 2: Plan mentally healthy activities

For this, select age-appropriate activities for your children, such as short affirmation sessions or StoryBook meditations.

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Step 3: Prioritize healthy habits

 Include a healthy breakfast, brushing teeth, and packing lunches for a mindful start.

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Step 4: Create a visual schedule

Make a visual schedule for your child that includes stickers or photos to help them follow the routine. A visual schedule can make the routine more engaging and easier for children to understand and follow. It can include images or icons representing each activity, making it fun and interactive for them.

For more ideas on organizing your mornings, check out our morning checklist for kids.

Step 5: Involve your child in planning

Give your kids the freedom to pick their activities and give them ownership over the routine. Involving your child in the planning process helps them feel more invested and excited about their morning routine. It also teaches them decision-making skills and responsibility.

For ideas on activities that can help create a calm and enjoyable routine, take a look at our calming activities for kids.

Step 6: Be flexible and positive

Unexpected interruptions? Adjust! A positive and steady flow is essential.

"Let's remember that the example teaches more than a thousand words. If parents stay calm and tidy in the mornings, they will get from their children what they really need."
💡Dra. Lorena Koppel

Step 7: Celebrate achievements

To maintain motivation, recognize accomplishments, and give credit for efforts!

You'll be saying goodbye to morning meltdowns and welcome to happy starts with these steps and a little perseverance! ✨

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If you're interested in further reading: nap schedule by age

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Sample morning routines for different age groups

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👶 Toddlers (18-36 months)

• 6:30 AM: Wake up, cuddle with parent, sing songs.
• 6:45 AM: Change diaper, wash hands.
• 7:00 AM: Simple breakfast - fruit, yogurt, milk.
• 7:15 AM: Play with quiet toys, listen to music or affirmations, meditations with StoryBook.
• 7:30 AM: Get dressed with help, brush teeth.
• 7:45 AM: Outdoor play (weather permitting) or another calming activity.
• 8:00 AM: Leave for daycare or start day at home.

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👧 Preschoolers (3-5 years old):

• 7:00 AM: Wake up, and choose an outfit from pre-selected options.
• 7:15 AM: Wash hands, brush teeth.
• 7:30 AM: Breakfast - cereal, eggs, fruit, milk.
• 7:45 AM: Help pack backpack, and choose a book for the day.
• 8:00 AM: Playtime with educational toys or quiet activities. you can also use affirmations and meditations with StoryBook.
• 8:15 AM: Get dressed independently with minimal assistance.
• 8:30 AM: Leave for school or start day at home with planned activities.

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👦 Elementary School (6-11 years old):

• 7:30 AM: Wake up, and listen to calming music.
• 7:45 AM: Shower, and dress independently.
• 8:00 AM: Pack lunch, and choose breakfast from healthy options.
• 8:15 AM: Practice reading with StoryBook, either with affirmations, stories, or meditations, solve a puzzle, or do another independent activity.
• 8:30 AM: Review daily schedule, and check backpack for forgotten items.
• 8:45 AM: Leave for school with some buffer time to avoid rushing.

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For more information on routines, click here:  bedtime routine for kids

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Tips for sustaining a morning routine for kids

Establishing a peaceful and well-structured morning routine is great, but sticking with it can be difficult. Here are some pointers to maintain positive energy:

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• The key is consistency: try your best to maintain the schedule, especially on the weekends. Unpredictability fosters security and eases anxiety at the last minute.

• Positive reinforcement: To celebrate accomplishments and motivate employees, give them small gifts, words of support, and praise. For this, we have the Storybook App, where you will find: stories, meditations, affirmations, and more.

• Engage them: Let your kids help develop and modify the routine to promote ownership and buy-in.

• Accept flexibility: Things happen in life! Be ready to modify the schedule without becoming anxious in unforeseen circumstances.

• Have fun! You can add music, amusing challenges, or playful activities to make mornings fun and exciting.

• Visual reminders: To assist your youngster in staying on task and responsible, use clocks, stickers, or charts.

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"The first step in planning your morning routine for school could be to make a weekly schedule with reminders of what your child needs for school each day.” 💡Raising Children

✨ Dive deeper, click here:  bedtimes by age

How can I make my child’s morning better?

Making your child's morning better sets a positive tone for the day. Instead of using loud alarms, set your child’s alarm to play a favorite song for a gentle wake-up. Wake them with snuggles or softly talking to them, creating a sense of security. Preparing their favorite breakfast gives them something to look forward to. Keep the routine efficient but filled with positive interactions. These small changes make mornings more enjoyable and less stressful, improving their mood and setting a positive tone for the day.

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