DIY: Daily Routine Chart for Kids

Disclaimer: While the Routine Chart may alleviate some familial frustrations, it is not a substitute for your Xanax, Prozac and the like. Continue to take all prescribed medications as usual. 

It’s a fact. Kids thrive on routine and structure. And my kids are no exception to this. It’s possible it’s because their mom is a Type-A Lunatic, but I like to think they’re happy and healthy, tiny humans that are thriving in this world. Sometimes it can be difficult to get our independent and opinionated threenagers to do things throughout the day. So I’ve implemented a “My Day” chart in our house so that my kids can feel like they are taking ownership of their schedules, but really they’re doing just what mama needs them to. 

After thinking about what kind of chart would work best for my family, I’ve come up with a product that can be used with a variety of ages and changed throughout the day as necessary. You can make this as DIY or Etsy-fabulous as you’d like, so let’s go!

 

 

Daily Routine Chart Printable

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Step 1: Download and print the chart and activities

Before we can really get started, you have to download and print the routine chart that I linked to just above here. 

After that, you can decide if you want to do something super easy at home or if you want to fancy-schmancy it up a bit, all Etsy like, and get everything printed and laminated at your local Fedex or the like. The Type-A Lunatic in me obviously goes for the second option, but really, either option is fine. 

In the download you’ll receive the actual chart as well as a number of different icons representing normal, daily activities that your child might do throughout her day. 

Step 2: Cut and magnet-fy

If DIY-ing at home, you’ll want to cut out each activity icon so you have a bunch of little squares. It will definitely work better if everything is printed on thicker paper, since it will be handled by little hands who may not be so gentle. 

I get my squares printed on thicker paper at Fedex, as well as laminated aka I kid-proof them. But again, it can really work either way. 

Then I stick these self-adhesive magnets on the back of each individual square. Basically, you’re making the activities into little magnets.

Step 3: Stick Routine Chart on magnet surface

Whether that is your refrigerator or a magnet board, I recommend putting the chart in a place where your kids can easily access this chart. I stuck 4 magnets on the back of ours and tried it out on the fridge. I’ve also put the chart on a magnetic white board that was already hanging on the wall. However it works best for you is great, but make sure that the chart ends up with a magnetic backing.

Step 4: use your chart and watch magic happen

Try it out! With the younger ones (3 and under) I suggest pre-choosing the activity icons for them, since too many choices can be overwhelming. Together with your little, stick each activity of the day on the chart. Talk about each part of your day. Here’s the magic part. When you’re having a hard time getting Little Miss Sassy Pants to get dressed before breakfast or to go potty first thing, you can remind her to look at what “her chart” says. And I bet she’ll hold herself to it, because the chart says so.

Remember, it’s all about ownership for the little ones and add in a bit of accountability for the older ones. The threenage years are all about that power struggle as your child begins to find their independence and individual voice. When we make our toddlers feel like they are in control and making the decision (even though we only gave them options we approve of) they are MUCH more likely to go along. 

As if the power struggle wasn’t enough, we want our older kids to begin to learn a bit of independence. Instead of nagging with each step, you can simply tell your child to refer to the chart, and hopefully, they can take responsibility for their daily schedules.

Daily Routine Chart Printable

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