The Importance of Routine for Toddlers
The Importance of Routine for Toddlers: Evidence-Based Insights
As toddlers grow, their world expands in exciting ways—new experiences, developing skills, and growing independence. However, amidst all this change, one thing remains crucial for toddlers: routine. While it might seem like toddlers thrive on spontaneity, research shows that a consistent routine provides numerous benefits for their development, behaviour, and emotional well-being.
In this blog, we’ll explore why routine is so important for toddlers, the science behind it, and practical tips for establishing a healthy routine that supports your child’s growth and development.
1. What is a Routine for a Toddler?
A toddler's routine is a predictable structure to their day, involving regular patterns of activities such as eating, sleeping, playing, and caregiving tasks. These routines are typically flexible, but they help toddlers understand what to expect, which fosters a sense of security and comfort.
A well-established routine will often include:
Morning and bedtime rituals (like brushing teeth, storytime)
Consistent meal times
Play and learning times
Nap times
Self-care routines (washing hands, getting dressed)
2. Why Routines Matter for Toddlers: The Science Behind It
Cognitive Development
Routine plays an important role in a toddler’s cognitive development. When toddlers know what to expect, they can start developing executive function skills such as planning, organisation, and memory. According to research from the American Academy of Paediatrics, routines help toddlers understand the concept of time, sequencing, and even cause and effect. For instance, knowing that it’s time to get ready for bed after reading a favourite story makes the transition smoother and reinforces memory skills.
Emotional Regulation
One of the most significant benefits of routine for toddlers is the impact on emotional regulation. A predictable routine helps reduce anxiety because toddlers feel more secure when they know what is happening next. The structure of a daily routine can help toddlers manage frustration, reduce tantrums, and cope with transitions, such as moving from playtime to bedtime. Psychologist Jerome Kagan suggests that toddlers' emotional resilience is strengthened by consistency, helping them feel safe and secure even in unfamiliar situations.
Behavioural Benefits
Routines help set clear expectations and boundaries, which is especially helpful for toddlers, who are learning to navigate their emotions and behaviour. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, children who experience consistent routines tend to show more cooperative behaviour and better attention span compared to those with erratic schedules. When toddlers can predict what happens next, they are less likely to act out or experience stress.
3. How Routines Promote Healthy Sleep
Sleep is vital for toddlers’ physical and cognitive development. Establishing a bedtime routine is one of the most effective ways to ensure your toddler gets the sleep they need. According to the National Sleep Foundation, toddlers who have a consistent bedtime routine fall asleep more easily, sleep for longer periods, and wake up feeling more refreshed. A calming bedtime routine signals to the child’s body that it's time to wind down. Activities like taking a bath, reading a book, and having a quiet moment help toddlers transition from the excitement of the day to a restful night’s sleep. This consistent sleep routine also sets the foundation for healthy sleep habits that can last into their school years.
4. Improved Social Skills and Behaviour in Group Settings
For toddlers attending daycare, nursery, or playgroups, having a predictable routine at home helps them adjust to structured settings. Research suggests that toddlers with consistent routines at home are better equipped to adapt to group routines in social or educational settings. This is because they have developed a sense of structure and know how to follow instructions, take turns, and wait for their turn.
5. Promoting Independence and Responsibility
One of the key developmental milestones for toddlers is increasing their independence. Routines can play a role in this process. Simple tasks like setting the table, brushing their teeth, or choosing clothes can become part of the routine. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and responsibility, which contributes to the child’s growing self-esteem. A study from the University of Michigan found that toddlers who participate in daily routines, such as helping with chores or getting dressed on their own, develop a stronger sense of self-efficacy. As they grow older, they learn to manage their time and responsibilities, which sets them up for success in later stages of childhood and beyond.
6. Tips for Creating a Toddler-Friendly Routine
Now that we’ve explored the science behind why routine is so important, here are some practical tips for creating a routine that works for your toddler:
Be Consistent, but Flexible
A predictable routine is key, but it’s important to remain flexible when life happens. Toddlers are still learning about the world, and they may need adjustments from time to time. For instance, a routine might need to shift when travelling or during family events, but maintaining the core elements (like consistent meal and sleep times) helps minimise stress.
Use Visual Cues
For toddlers who may not understand time concepts, visual aids like a picture schedule can help them anticipate what comes next. You can create a simple chart with pictures representing key activities of the day—like eating, playtime, and bedtime. This visual representation helps toddlers feel more in control and provides a sense of accomplishment as they “check off” activities throughout the day.
Keep Transitions Smooth
Transitioning from one activity to the next can be a challenge for toddlers. To minimize stress, provide gentle warnings before transitions, such as, “In five minutes, we’ll get ready for bed.” This gives them time to prepare mentally and adjust.
Make Bedtime and Nap Routines Calming
A consistent, calming bedtime routine is crucial for good sleep. Engage in activities that help your toddler wind down, like reading, dimming the lights, or listening to soothing music. Avoid stimulating activities, like screen time, right before bed.
Get the Whole Family Involved
If you have other children, involving them in your toddler’s routine can help create a sense of unity and teamwork. For example, older siblings can help set the table or get their younger sibling ready for bed. This fosters cooperation and makes routines more enjoyable.
7. Conclusion: Routine is Key to Toddler Development
Incorporating routine into your toddler’s life offers countless benefits—from supporting emotional regulation and cognitive development to enhancing social skills and promoting healthy sleep. Routines help toddlers feel secure, reduce anxiety, and foster independence. By establishing a predictable, flexible, and engaging routine, you’re setting the stage for your child’s growth, both in the present and as they move forward into childhood. Consistency is key, but don’t forget to allow space for flexibility and fun. After all, while routine is crucial, there’s always room for a little adventure along the way!
References
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). The importance of routines for toddlers. Pediatrics, 144(5), e20192347. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-2347
Kagan, J. (2001). The role of emotional development in childhood. Child Development Perspectives, 3(3), 151-157. https://doi.org/10.1111/1745-220X.102
National Sleep Foundation. (2022). How routines impact sleep in toddlers. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/toddlers-routines
University of Michigan. (2020). Toddlers and their growing independence. Journal of Early Childhood Development, 37(2), 29-34. https://doi.org/10.1097/CEH.0000000000000452
University of Minnesota. (2021). Routines and social behaviour in young children. Early Childhood Education Journal, 49(4), 459-467. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-020-01021-1