Encourage parents to offer a choice in activities or the steps of a routine whenever possible.You can say something like, 'Plans change, things happen, but give your child a warning ahead of time if things are going to be different. Let parents know they should also be flexible.Remind families to keep the routine and schedule as similar as possible each day.Let parents know that reviewing the schedule every morning and throughout the day with their child helps them know what is going to happen next.For example, ask parents if there are parts of the routine the child can do on their own or with a little assistance-and let them do it. Encourage families to let their children help.To start, help family members break down one of their scheduled tasks into steps to create the routine.Ask families about things they do every day. Partnering with Families on Schedules and Routines You can help by following clear and simple schedules and routines.
Engaging, predictable environments and ongoing positive adult-child interactions are necessary for promoting children's social and emotional development and preventing challenging behaviors.
