Improving Daily Routines at Home with your Children: Tips for Using a Visual Schedule

Routines in the early years can feel wild! From trying to get out the door in the mornings to the dreaded bed time routines. That's not even considering the change in routines for holidays, travel, sick days, and so on. This is where visual schedules (checklists, mini storybooks, etc) can go a long way in reducing power struggles, instilling predictability and supporting co-regulation through routines.

One of the many things I love about visuals is they work with young kids because it has nothing to do with reading! As they get used to them they typically feel empowered, a sense of control/choice and don't need as many of those verbal reminders from parents (which is great for you!).

Why Visual Schedule Work For Young Children

Visual schedules give children:

• A clear picture of what’s happening next and what to expect.

• Fosters confidence and age-appropriate autonomy.

• Provides predictability during transitions.

• Supports parents and kids being on the same team together.

• A chance to talk through sameness and changes.

For children who struggle with transitions, anxiety, impulsivity, or big feelings, visuals can be an incredible proactive tool to support their emotional regulation.

Tips for Making Visuals at Home

• Keep it Simple (I mean REALLY SIMPLE)

• Grab some paper, markers, glue and either print out or draw pictures to represent the various parts of your routine

• Some people choose to laminate and/or velcro their visual schedules in order to re-use it. (not needed)

• I have also seen people creatively use button lights, magnatiles and lots of other ways to make it "reusable" to change and adjust as needed.

• I always recommended a TOP-to-BOTTOM visual so it is easy for your child to follow along (especially for young children)

• Make it WITH your child so they can feel part of the process as well as creating another opportunity to talk about your routines.

Tips for Using Visuals at Home

• Breathe- the whole point is that with practice visuals bring ease to your daily routines (not more stress).

• Introduce it to them when we are all calm and not in the middle of routines/transitions. (most likelihood for success)

• Use them with intention (and know it's no the end all be all)

• Consistency is key and practice makes progress.

• Use simple language (don't get carried away with too many words)

• Provide age-appropriate choices where you can

• Model and narrate flexibility (because things won't always go as planned)

• Take about what will be the same and what will be different.

When Will A Visual Be Helpful At Home?

You can make a visual schedule routine board, a visual checklist, you can make it a simple list, you can make a storybook, you can make it anyway that works for your family's situation.

Here are some of the common situations and times families with young children might use a visual schedule:

• Morning Routine

• Bedtime Routine

• Toileting Routine

• Afterschool or Daycare Routine

• Traveling or Vacation

• Holiday Break or Changes in routine

• Doctors or Dentist visits

• Going to a new school

If getting through your daily routines at home for you and your little one is challenging, reach out for support from a professional in your area.

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Recommended Visual Routine Icons Here:

Visual Schedule 108 Routine Icons: Holiday, Travel, Daily Routines & More