Preparing for upcoming changes to your child’s routine
If there is one thing you know I wholeheartedly believe in, it’s that children THRIVE on routine. They like knowing what to expect - it gives them a sense of security!
But what do you do when there is an upcoming change to their routine? Whether you are gearing up for a holiday break, planning a trip away, or moving from a crib to a bed, here are some ways you can help prepare your child for an upcoming routine change.
*Note: These steps apply for both one-time changes (ie. an upcoming doctor’s appointment or a travel day), temporary changes (ie. a holiday break), and permanent changes (ie. moving from a crib to a bed).
How to prepare for a change in your child’s routine:
Pick a date and/or time the change will occur. This may be chosen for you, or you may have a say, but either way, know when it is coming up. Choose a day or time-frame and then, if the change is within your control, commit to being consistent with the change for at least a couple of weeks before re-evaluating.
Example: If you want to move your child from a crib to a bed, plan a date that the official transition will occur.
2. Talk with your partner and other caregivers that may be impacted by the change so everyone is on the same page.
Example: Let your partner, nanny, mother-in-law, and whoever else is involved in the care of your child know when this change is happening. Explain why you’ve chosen to make this change and how this aligns with your parenting values.
3. Get your child involved. Remember, kids don’t like surprises! Talking about the upcoming change to the routine can be very impactful. Discuss what is going to happen in advance and what will be different for them. Though this can often bring up big feelings in the moment, it is far better than surprising them with a brand new change without warning. Giving your child a heads-up signals respect and helps build the predictability children crave. Even young toddlers can understand more than you think!
Example: Tell your child “On Saturday, we are going to say good-bye to our crib! You will start sleeping in your brand new bed. I can’t wait for you to help me pick out your new sheets and stuffed animals.”
4. Use a visual calendar or schedule to show your child when the change is going to happen. Young children have difficulty understanding the concept of time, so visuals can help a lot. You can purchase a visual calendar or even create one yourself. Make sure to post it somewhere your child can see it easily (ie. on the fridge) and refer to the visual often leading up to and after the change.
Example: Put a bed icon or picture on the calendar on the day the change will happen. Point to each day on the calendar as you lead up to the change.
(My favorite visual calendar for toddlers is the Mighty and Bright Weekly Connection Calendar! Use code ROOTED10 for 10% off!)
Doing these things can help immensely when making a PLANNED change to a routine, whether one-time, short-term, or long-term. Try doing this for things like upcoming travel, doctor appointments, family events, or a new school/daycare.
Obviously, we can’t predict every change that may happen and that’s okay. There are going to be times when last-minute changes to the routine happen, and as caregivers, it is out of our control. Some children have an easier time with this than others. Lean in to what your child needs in that moment to get through it. It may be helpful to narrate through what is going on, even if it is a change, and reiterate to your child when the normal routine may resume.
What strategies have you used to help your child through a change in their routine? Comment below or let me know by sending me a DM on Instagram!