The Benefits of Routine for Infants and Toddlers: Why Consistency is Key in Childcare

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The Benefits of Routine for Infants and Toddlers: Why Consistency is Key in Childcare

The Benefits of Routine for Infants and Toddlers Why Consistency is Key in Childcare

As adults, routine is critical to caring for ourselves and our responsibilities.  Most adults follow a routine that helps them get everything they need done throughout the day. Having a routine ensures there is adequate time to do all that we need to do– and some of the things we like to do.

Infants and toddlers benefit just as much, if not more, from routine than adults. A consistent daily schedule can help kids feel safe and secure and allows adequate time for rest, meals, learning, and play.

Ensuring consistency during childcare is critical to a child’s development. This article will explore the benefits of routine for infants and toddlers. You will learn why consistency is crucial in child care. You also learn where to find high-quality childcare programs near you.

If you are a parent looking for high-quality early learning and childcare programs, contact the team at New Horizons today. You can learn about our programs or schedule a tour of our learning center.

The Benefits of Routine for Infants and Toddlers

Young children benefit from a consistent routine. Maintaining structured routines at home and in early childhood or child care programs is essential.

Here are some of the most significant benefits of maintaining a routine in childcare and at home.

Easier transitions

Consistency in childcare settings can lead to smoother transitions from one activity to the next. It can also give babies and toddlers a sense of security, helping them transition more easily from home to daycare and back again.

Transitioning is one of the most essential school readiness skills. Infants and toddlers gain this critical skill in predictable environments with regular daily routines.

Fostering flexibility

Infants and toddlers thrive when they feel safe and secure. Following a consistent daily routine at daycare can actually help them adapt to changes in schedule. While this may seem counterintuitive, it can be easier for children to adapt to changes when other aspects of their daily routine remain the same.

Creating independence

Young children can gain confidence by following a predictable schedule. Infants and toddlers feel safe and secure when they know what to expect next throughout the day. This confidence can help kids develop more independence at each developmental stage.

Better sleep

It might go without saying,  but regular sleep is critical for infants and toddlers. Good sleep is essential for young children’s learning and development.

Following a consistent routine can ensure that babies and toddlers get into a rhythm that supports good rest at home and at daycare.

Adapting to a schedule

People of all ages typically do better when their lives follow a consistent schedule. Infants and toddlers can learn the benefits of a schedule at an early age. The importance of consistency is universal, and learning to adapt to a new schedule is one of the most important skills young children can learn.

Reducing anxiety

The consistency of a daily schedule or regular routine can reduce anxiety in young children. Infants and toddlers may struggle with uncertainty or fear in an unpredictable or unfamiliar environment or during transitions.

Consistency and a nurturing environment can help children develop a sense of belonging. They also foster good social skills at every age, contributing to a child’s emotional development. Children feel secure and less anxious when they know what to expect throughout the day.

Teaching self-control

Even young children can begin to develop self-control.  A consistent routine allows children to develop patience. For example, if toddlers know that outdoor time comes after story time, they may be less likely to ask to go outside earlier in the day.

When children know what will happen next, it may make it easier for them to wait patiently. This is an important milestone in a child’s emotional development.

Reduce parental anxiety

Parents can feel more confident knowing their child is on a consistent schedule at daycare. Their child may experience easier pick-up and drop-off transitions and benefit from consistent feeding and nap times.

Many parents adapt to their child’s daycare routine on weekends and days off. Not having to create a daily routine from scratch can significantly benefit busy parents.

Allows adequate time for activities

Finally, one of the most significant benefits of a consistent childcare routine is that it allows adequate time for all necessary activities. These include:

  •  Naps
  •  Meals/bottles
  •  Free play
  •  Structured learning activities
  •  Outdoor play
  •  Diaper changes/ toileting
  •  Transitions from one activity to the next

Infants and toddlers need consistent, attentive care at all times. Establishing a routine can help caregivers meet all children’s needs.

Find Childcare Now

If you are a parent looking for high-quality infant and toddler care programs, reach out to the team at New Horizons to explore our programs. Contact us with questions or to schedule a tour of our learning center. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!

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