Creating daily routines for students

My name is Madame Karine and as a French immersion teacher from Calgary, I have some helpful tips for students looking to establish daily routines. By incorporating simple habits into your day, you can improve your productivity and overall well-being. Here are some of my suggestions for creating a successful routine for your child.

Creating daily routines is almost essential to any human. As creatures of habit, human beings thrive in having some predictability and structure in their lives.

My example of daily routines

I know for me; my morning routine is crucial to my well-being. It starts my day off right. Without it; I feel out of balance. I like to start my day with a cup of warm lemon water, some personal writing, taking my dog Rio for his morning walk, and doing my yoga/meditation/qigong practise. Then it’s time for my coffee and breakfast. NOW, I am ready for anything; work, errands, appointments. My days revolve around this morning routine. If I have to teach early, I plan accordingly as I need this sacred time.

Just like adults, children feel more confident and secure when their daily activities are predictable and familiar.

The importance of daily routines for students (children)

For children, routines are indispensable! They are vital for their well-being. As they control nothing in their lives, (adults don’t either, but we like to think that we do), this gives them a sense of security. We spring upon them so many things, so it is necessary for them to also have some things that they know ‘are going to happen’. From the beginning, they learn routines at school; where we put our belongings, sit, how we start the day (songs, circle time, calendar). They thrive in knowing this routine. It gives them a sense of security. Kids always correct a substitute teacher if they deviate from the well-known ‘procedures’.

So, what are some simple daily routines for children?

There are 3 simple daily practises that are wonderful for children’s growth and well-being; daily reading, positive affirmations and gratitude.

1. Reading Routines - Creating ‘Positive’ Reading Habits At Home

Like in school, this needs to become a daily routine. Something the child knows and expects is going to happen, whether they like it or not. It is something that they ‘just do’ every day. No questions asked.

This ‘non-negotiable’ responsibility is essential for early literacy intervention. There are 2 parts to this routine: the parent reading to the child a story, as well as the child practising their reading to the parent. The first is for pure enjoyment, so it is important to read something that your child wants. This can be in any language.

The second is a reading routine for them and it's all about practise. Your child should be reading at least 10 minutes a day, everyday. Because we want this part to be achievable and successful, it has to be a book or text that is at their personal reading level.

If they are learning French reading, it is important to focus on the French in the beginning in order to not confuse the sounds.

Stick to the same routine

To create a proper routine, it is vital of course that it is done around the same time every day. Before bedtime is always a favorite for getting cozy and reading together.

2. The Power Of Positive Affirmations

Another daily routine that I love and that I did with my own children is positive affirmations. They needed to look in the mirror every morning and say “I like you” or something positive. It could be for their learning “I am capable”, “I am intelligent”, “I am confident”, “I am making progress every day”, “I am focused”, “I am doing my best” or a general affirmation “I am kind”, “I am strong”, “I am courageous.” Again, the important part is to do this daily.

3. The Beauty Of Gratitude

Last but most definitely not least is practising gratitude. In a world that moves so fast and is full of consumerism and waste, this is something we must all do. I have implemented this regularly with my kids and still do now, even though they are teens. Before we say goodnight, I ask them to tell me 5 things they are grateful for. Simple. It can be anything “for dinner, for cuddles, for my dog, for not having homework, for my new shoes….” Whatever. It

teaches them appreciation. Seeing life through the lens of gratitude changes the complete outlook on life. Focus turns into the important things in life: the magic, the beauty, the simplicity and the privilege that one has. Our personal practise was before bedtime, but others like to do this during dinner time. Anything works. The significance is the act. The gesture of sharing what we are thankful for.

The critical part in all of these routines is to model. As we all know, children learn most by observing. ‘Practise what you preach’ as the saying goes, and watch your children grow and flourish.

Gratitude for a new day