Establish Consistent Routines

Ever feel like your day is just a series of chaotic, snack-fueled negotiations with a tiny, irrational roommate? Welcome to the magical world of routines, where the same three books, bath time, and the eternal struggle to locate the favorite pajamas somehow become the glue holding your sanity together. If you’re tired of bedtime feeling like a hostage situation, or you just want to drink your coffee before it gets cold, this is your jam. Spoiler: your kid might actually start to expect what happens next (and so might you).

Kids’ brains love predictability—routine helps their little neurons chill out, reducing anxiety and meltdowns (for both of you). Routines build trust, create a sense of security, and help with emotional regulation. For parents, it means fewer surprise tantrums and more time to pretend you’re reading parenting articles instead of scrolling memes.

How to do it

  1. Pick a few anchor points, such as wake-up, meals, and bedtime. Stick to the same order each day, even if the timing isn’t perfect.

  2. Use visual cues to signal transitions. These can include charts, songs, or even wild interpretive dance moves.

  3. Start small—perhaps with just a bedtime routine. Add more steps gradually as you and your child get comfortable.

  4. Expect some resistance (because toddlers). Keep showing up and following the routine.

  5. Remember, consistency is key—not perfection.

  6. Celebrate your successes! It’s totally okay to cheer when you make it through the whole routine without tears (yours or theirs).

Key Tips:

  • Anchor points help create predictability, even if the clock isn’t exact.
  • Visual cues make transitions clearer and more fun for toddlers.
  • Building routines gradually can make them less overwhelming.
  • Resistance is normal; patience and repetition help.
  • Focus on being consistent rather than perfect.
  • Celebrate small wins—they matter!

After dinner, as you’re clearing the table.

Point to the first step on the chart and say, 'Guess what comes next?'
Give yourself a mental high-five (or an actual one with your kid) and do a silly victory dance.
Print or draw a simple bedtime routine chart with pictures (bath, pajamas, teeth, story, bed) and hang it up in your kid’s room.

When you notice it’s getting dark outside.

Play the song and announce, 'It’s time for our evening routine!'
Take a deep breath and savor the 0.2 seconds of peace before the next negotiation.
Pick one song to play every night before starting the bedtime routine.

When you start running your kid’s bath.

Show your child where the pajamas and book are waiting.
Smile and tell your kid, 'We’re totally nailing this routine thing!'
Set out pajamas and a favorite book in the same spot every night.