The importance of routine

Routines are so important in children's lives to help establish expectations, develop better behavior and a sense of personal control.

According to the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning,
Studies have documented that schedules and routines influence children's emotional, cognitive, and social development. Predictable and consistent schedules in preschool classrooms help children feel secure and comfortable. Also, schedules and routines help children understand the expectations of the environment and reduce the frequency of behavior problems, such as tantrums and acts of aggression.

For kids with special needs, a daily routine allows them to know what to expect and how to prepare for it.  If a child doesn't know what to expect they are in a constant state of worry or heightened anxiety for what's to come next. And if "what's next" is something they feel they can't handle, negative behaviors tend to come forward including meltdowns, and tantrums.

Depending on the child routines for morning, meal times and bedtime are important to establish many aspects of healthy living, good habits and good behavior.  Visual picture schedules work great for day to day activities. Large calendars with pictures of doctor appointments, 1st day of school, soccer practice or dentist visits are a way for children to get prepared for what's to come.

If you have any experience or insight on the importance of routines, please share!