By Jem Findlay - @create4me
In early childhood education, routines, whether intentional or not, can become an overwhelming part of an educator’s day. A clear plan for the day can make all the difference between a smooth day or a hectic one, but it can also cause issues when we focus too heavily on the what’s next.
When I mentor educators, I often speak about the dreaded what’s next mindset—it’s a habit many of us fall into, both in our professional and personal lives. Being present, simply ‘being’ (a word mentioned a casual 11 times in the EYLF), can be challenging for some of us—and by us, I mean me. Well, the old me anyway.
Pair that constant feeling of what’s next with a really structured, timed routine, and the day can start to feel rigid. This rigidity can cause uncertainty for children, which often presents as “challenging behaviour.”
The Power of a Respectful Routine
When we implement a thoughtful and respectful routine, we provide children with a predictable rhythm that gives them a sense of belonging within the environment. In turn, this creates a much smoother day for both educators and children.
I don’t know about you, but I still lose it when the power goes out, especially when I’m watching my favourite reality show. Even as a resilient adult, the uncertainty frustrates me to no end.
Now, imagine the calm that comes from knowing that after snack time, it’s time for cooking—not at 10:05 am but just next. With this predictability, children can enjoy their morning tea without feeling rushed or anxious about what comes after. On the flip side, if we suddenly announce, “Snack time is over, it’s 10:05, time for cooking,” it’s like hitting a speed bump on a smooth road. The unexpected change can lead to frustration and anxiety, which often shows up, as you guessed it, “challenging behaviour”.
Enter Visual Routines
Visual routines act as a guide for the day. They provide clear, visual representations of what’s coming next, making transitions smoother for children. Using pictures or charts, we can illustrate the sequence of daily activities, helping children understand what to expect.
For instance, when children can see that after morning tea we will have a cooking experience, followed by outdoor play and then lunch, they feel empowered to manage their own transitions.
Visual routines have been around for decades, though their formal use in educational and therapeutic settings became more prominent in the 1970s and 1980s. These tools are wonderful for supporting children to feel more in control, enhancing their independence, reducing anxiety, and easing transitions throughout the day.
5 Tips for Creating Respectful Visual Routines
- Involve the Children: Let children have input in the visual routine, creating a sense of ownership.
- Don’t Rush Transitions: Allow children time to adjust; rushing can cause uncertainty.
- Use Positive Language: Frame transitions with positive and engaging language.
- Acknowledge Feelings: Validate children’s emotions if they feel upset by a change in the routine.
- Let the Clock Guide, Not Dictate: Use the clock as a gentle guide rather than a strict enforcer.
What do the EYLF and NQS Say About Routines?
The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) emphasises the importance of routines and transitions in supporting children’s learning and development.
The National Quality Standard (NQS) also highlights the need for flexible, responsive routines that cater to children’s needs, ensuring a positive and supportive learning environment.
Visual routines can help educators create predictable environments that make children feel secure and ready to engage.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, a respectful routine provides the predictability children need while allowing room for flexibility and spontaneity. This balance makes the learning environment a place where children feel secure and empowered to explore, knowing what’s next without feeling restricted by the clock.
By Jem Findlay - @create4me
