ListPlanIt

Every family is different and each family has their own set of priorities. Some families may find a game of kickball is what they need directly after school. Some families may find themselves shuttling one child to karate, another to soccer, and yet another to piano lessons all in the same afternoon. Some families cook together while others prefer takeout. It is helpful when planning an afterschool routine to consider your family’s personality. Here are a few things that you should remember in order to layout a routine that your family can stick to.

• Quiet/alone time – Some children need a chance to decompress after a day of constant social interaction. A little time alone in their room is a healthy option for overstimulated children.
• Teatime/Snacktime – Children are often very hungry when the return from school and need a little something to help them make it to dinner. You can read here about how my family enjoys afternoon tea together just after school.
• Homework – Should homework be done immediately after school? Before dinner? After dinner? Before bed? Decide the best time for your family and stick to it.
• Playtime – Being a kid means playing tag with the neighbor children or playing with Barbie dolls or Legos.
• Extracurricular activities – Each activity will have its own requirements. Start times and length of activities may vary.
• Dinner – A regular dinnertime will discourage unnecessary snacking or whining about “When’s dinner?” If everyone knows when to expect dinner, the chances of all eating together are greater.
• Reading – Children are more likely to be readers when they are given an opportunity to do so. Schedule a family reading time half an hour before bedtime or allow the children to read in their beds for half an hour when they are ready for bed.
• Bedtime – When children are given a non-negotiable bedtime, there is less resistance to getting ready for bed.