If it is necessary to get back on schedule to your normal routine than that is because things have gone a little crazy for whatever reason (even if it seems like no reason at all) and that is totally normal – do not beat yourself up about it.
Holidays this happens a lot, but as I said a new baby, a visitor, new school, extra after school activities…the reasons are endless.
So, the important part, is to get back on track, the plan on how you do it, must be organised. What I am saying is: don’t just blurt out in the morning, after another disorganised night, your frustrations!
1. Try to work out why the schedule has been thrown out (if you can).
2. Call a family meeting and tell the kids about the routine being disrupted and that from (when you say) a new schedule will take place (or your old schedule if it was successful).
3. Put up on the white board the expectations and times. Even though you might think this is unnecessary, it doesn’t hurt, and it is a simple thing that could make like a little easier. Kids are amazing, but they are different to adults and live in a kids world and sometimes the little things make their life a lot easier.
4. After a night or two revisit the issue and now it is time to be tough if the schedule is not being followed as requested. Make it clear what the consequences might be – starting off small is often ideal and gradually increasing the punishment. You might take away their story, their back rub, their short quiet activity time before bed etc.
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