Families often scramble to get things done before everyone leaves the house.
Make a Routine Chart or List
The format of the list will depend on the age and reading ability of your child. Some children with special needs rely on picture symbols for communication. Others are fluent readers but have physical impairments that require special services. Here are some examples of format:
- A chart with 2 picture icons (that will be replaced with others as tasks are completed)
- A chart with pictures for each routine activity
- A list with pictures and 1-2 words for each
- A list with simple sentences
What could be included on the chart?
- Make bed
- Eat breakfast
- Brush teeth
- Get dressed
- Put dirty clothes/pajamas in laundry basket
- Feed pet
- Pick up toys/other belongings
Every family has a different morning schedule and amount of time for everyone to be ready to go. It is better to have a few basic things on the morning routine chart and to master those before making a longer list.
Learn the Chart
Consider how you feel when you start a new job. Perhaps you have a general idea of what the job will entail. You may not, however, have specific guidelines. You want to know exactly what is expected for you to do a good job. Children are the same way. It is even more the case when the child has a disability.
Once you have established the morning routine chart, you will need to explain the chart to your child. Show them what you are wanting for each task. Plan to spend several days working through the chart as your child completes the list. It is important to give lots of praise for things done and for positive attempts. It is also important to stick to the order of the tasks on the list. Routine is key here.
Keep the Chart in a Consistent Place
Again, routine is key. Decide on a place to keep the chart where it will be easily accessible to you and your child. Some families like to post things on the refrigerator because a parent can redirect the child to the list as needed. Others find it helpful to post the list in the child’s room.
My next article will be how to reward for and revise the morning routine chart.
