Family is the center of every child’s world. When elements of that family changes, it can be difficult for children to cope. While divorce may ultimately be the best thing for your family, it can be hard for everyone to go through in the moment. For children, keeping a routine can be important for learning how to cope with big changes.
Child psychologist Danielle Kaufman says in an article by news.com.au, “Building routines with your children helps them feel safe. They know what to expect when they go home, and it provides them with clear boundaries, expectations and consistency.”
As your child learns to adjust to a new way of living, instill routine into every day to give them that sense of security. Keep a few routines consistent across the different households they may now be moving between. Here are a few ideas that you and your co-parent can consider for creating routine in your child’s every day:
- Set aside a time for homework every day. This can help instill the importance of academics as well as give kids something to focus on when home life feels unsure.
- Having dinner together is one of the easiest ways to create routine. Shared meals can be a great time to reconnect with your kids and check-in.
- Create a bedtime routine. Brush your teeth together and read a bedtime story with your kids each night.
- When it’s your weekend with the kids, plan a fun activity. Make breakfast together, play games at home, have a movie night or go out to the park.
No matter what your daily life looks like, there are little routines that you can create with your kids every day. These will help give your children consistency, boundaries and a sense of security that will ultimately help them cope with big changes and adjust to your new family dynamics.