​​​​​​​​​​​Materials: None.

STEP 1

Think of a three-step routine yo​ur family can do each day​. You can start with bedtime or when you wake up in the morning. Choose three things you want to do with your child each time you practice this routine.

STEP 2

Sit down with your child and tell them you will practice a routine today. Say, “First we will…” Then, “Next we will…” Finally, “Last we will…” Show your child what you will do during each step. You might choose to get dressed, eat breakfast, and read a book together in the morning.

STEP 3

Make a goal to practice your three steps every day for a week. Your child will start to remember each step and will get excited with you.

MAKE IT EASIER:

Your family can make a routine with one or two steps to start. At bedtime, your routine might be to read a book and sing a song before going to sleep.

EXTEND THE LEARNING:

Ask your child if they can remember the steps you do each day. Once they have learned all the steps, you can add new ones to help your child become more independent.


​WHAT IS MY CHILD LEARNING?

Your child is learning that there are some routines that happen each day. Routines help your child feel safe and connected to you! A routine might be “wake up, change clothes, eat breakfast.” Every family has different routines during their day.

WHY?

Talking about daily routines helps your child think about events in order. By using the words “first,” “next,” and “last,” they are learning what a series is. This will make changing tasks easier during the day and give them social–emotional skills they need for school.
a directional sign