Tips for Working with a Child Who Prefers Physical Routines

Friends, Family and Home

• Tell family members who are caring for her what her routines are.
• Keep family routines, such as bedtimes, and warn ahead of time when they are going to change.
• Encourage friendships with children who have positive habits and routines.
• Allow baby to set his own sleep and eating routines and try to follow them.

Learning, Childcare and School

• Tell teachers what her routines are, and let them know when her routine has been upset.
• Choose a more structured childcare program where general schedules are followed.
• As much as possible, maintain the same routines at home as at childcare, including nap times, mealtimes, etc.

Activities and Television

• Provide him with activities such as board games that are more structured and follow routines, as well as games such as "Charades" and pretend games that are less structured.
• Allow her some unplanned play time.
• Recognize that his favorite TV show may seem very important, and try to allow a system for that to be part of his routine.

Guidance and Discipline

• Tell her and prepare ahead if there will be changes in her routine.
• Stay aware of his bathroom routine even if you are busy.
• Bring snacks along if her meal routine may be disturbed.
• Take familiar objects on trips, such as pillows or favorite bubble bath, and maintain routines as much as possible.