As a mother, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos of daily life. From waking up early to make breakfast, packing lunches, getting kids ready for school, and managing household chores, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and exhausted. However, creating routines around motherhood can help make the rhythm of motherhood easier, more manageable, and even enjoyable.
Today, we’re exploring the importance of routines in motherhood and how they can benefit both you and your children.
In case you missed it: last week we took a look at our routines around mealtimes.
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Routines provide structure and stability
Children thrive on structure and routine. They feel more secure and safe when they know what to expect, and a routine can provide that. When you have a daily routine, your children will know what to expect, and they’ll be better prepared for transitions throughout the day. They’ll also be more likely to follow rules and guidelines when they know what’s expected of them.
Routines help with time management
As a mother, time management is essential. With so much to do and so little time, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly rushing around. However, with a routine in place, you can make the most of your time and get everything done more efficiently. By having a set schedule for tasks like cleaning, cooking, and errands, you can eliminate the stress of trying to figure out what needs to be done next.
I (Shan), for example, split duties with Bobby so that everyone has 1:1 time with Max–Bobby handles bath time during the week and I do it on the weekends. I also love my quiet mornings with Max when we have playtime and breakfast together. 15-20 minutes a day is usually my target for dedicated bonding time with Max. I’ve found that time really helps our connection and relationship in a way that is attainable and not overwhelming.
Routines create healthy habits
A routine can help you create healthy habits for yourself and your children. For example, if you make it a habit to eat breakfast together as a family every morning, your children will learn the importance of starting the day with a healthy meal. Similarly, if you make it a habit to exercise together, your children will learn the value of staying active and healthy.
Jenna’s family now goes to the YMCA together in the evenings. She was finding it difficult to commit to gym time away from her family, so she found a gym that could accommodate everyone! Now, the family goes and works out together–even Coh and Maddie. It’s be come a healthy habit for everyone and helps model the importance of health and working out.
Routines promote independence
When children know what to expect, they can start to take on more responsibility for themselves. For example, if your child knows that they need to get dressed and brush their teeth before breakfast, they’ll start to do those things on their own without you having to remind them. This independence can lead to increased confidence and self-esteem in your children.
Routines help with sleep
One of the most significant challenges of motherhood is getting enough sleep. However, a routine can help you establish healthy sleep habits for yourself and your children. By having a set bedtime and wake-up time, you can help regulate your body’s natural sleep cycle, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Jenna’s family splits up their evening routine with one parent taking on Charlie’s bath and the other takes on getting the bigger kids ready for bed. Before that, they take a 1 mile walk together for some fresh air to help everyone sleep a bit better.
Routines create bonding opportunities
Creating a routine can also create bonding opportunities for you and your children. For example, if you make it a habit to read a story together before bed, you’ll be able to spend quality time with your child while also promoting literacy and a love of reading.
Now, instead of TV, Jenna has noticed that if she picks up a book and starts to read before bedtime, her kids do the same! Just the other night, Jenna started to read and before she knew it Maddie and Coh had joined. It really proved that kids are always watching what we’re doing and it’s important to set healthy examples for them to follow. Instead of implementing a strict “reading time” during the day, Jenna just leads by example and her children follow.
Routines reduce stress
Finally, routines can help reduce stress for both you and your children. When you know what to expect and have a plan in place, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or stressed. Instead, you’ll feel more in control and able to handle whatever comes your way.
In conclusion, a routine can be an essential tool for mothers, helping to provide structure and stability, promote healthy habits, and reduce stress. By creating a routine, you can make motherhood easier, more enjoyable, and more fulfilling for both you and your children.
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