by Nan Keltie

Created on: November 18, 2008   Last Updated: June 08, 2009

Having a schedule, to your child, is like having a security blanket. It is "there," it's a constant, and it brings comfort. Whether you have a detail oriented toddler, a fun-loving toddler or a trail-blazing toddler, a schedule will help your child feel secure in knowing there is a certain consistency to each day.

Detail-oriented toddlers ~

Because routines represent security, the detail-oriented child enjoys structure and finds comfort in schedules. These children like having things in good order: Crayons are lined up "just so" in their original box and tall block towers are always stacked with precision. When it comes to helping around the house, detail-oriented children like chores that require order: Setting the table for meals and matching pairs of socks on laundry day.

Clocks and calendars, two tools associated with scheduling, come into play when teaching children about schedules. Spend some quality together-time while making a paper-plate clock that has moveable hands. The hands can then be positioned to show a toddler that certain things happen at certain times: breakfast, lunch, supper, bedtime, etc.

Make or buy a calendar and supply stars or stickers to identify special appointments. Before tucking your child in, mark another day off her calendar and have a nighttime cuddle routine. Once everything is in "good order," your detail-oriented child is usually content to settle down and sleep.

Fun-loving toddlers ~

These children are sociable little people who love being in the middle of the action! For that reason, time restraints are often viewed as interruptions to fun. It's up to you as a parent to set sensible schedules and train your child to respect them. Try to do this in such a way that your child learns the value of following a routine.

If clocks, calendars and schedules have a good connotation for child, schedules won't seem so frustrating. Does your son or daughter have an upcoming play date with a good friend? Discuss the importance of being there on the right day at the right time. When it's time to do something specific, like eating lunch, brushing teeth or going to visit grandparents, point to the clock.

Because the bedtime routine is your child's last social connection for the day, it needs to be well established. If it isn't, a fun-loving child will stall as long as you permit! Avoid this by maintaining simple bed-time routines. Talk about pleasant things you did that day, read a quiet story and then giving a gentle back rub.

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