Points to Consider when Developing a Routine

Planning a routine requires a sound understanding of child development.

A good routine should:

• Provide a structure and pattern to children's lives.
• Give a sense of security.
• Meet children's developmental needs.
• Meet individual needs.
• Be child focused.
• Give children time.
• Provide opportunities for a range of different experiences.
• Meet physical care needs; food and drinks requirements, toileting hygiene.
• Provide opportunities for children to spend time with adults.
• Provide opportunities for children to spend time alone or with other children.
• Meet the wishes of parents/carers.
• Be flexible.
• Be realistic - take practical considerations into account - the start and end of the session, lunchtime, availability of some facilities.