Routines make children feel safe, secure and know what is expected of them. It helps establish security and peace in their life and eradicates the need to ask what they need to do next in their day. They will know from doing it on a daily basis. Children thrive with routines that are easy to understand and do yet flexible enough to change if circumstances warrant. Sometimes the routine has to go out of the window, however good routines will keep your family organised and your children able to schedule time.

I have been thinking a lot recently about moods and how our mood and attitude rubs off on the people around us – especially our children. It is important that if we do wake up on the wrong side of bed that the world is still a great place to be. Children can pick up on our moods and then reflect them back at us. If the sun is shining and you are too, then our children will be bouncing around like sheep in spring (I write from experience).  

Rushing around in the morning with your children shouting at you and you shouting back is no fun at all. Mornings can be relaxed and enjoyable for all of you – but only if you plan them. The time before your children go to bed is a great time to get planning for a relaxed morning underway. Here is what you can do to help: