Hi again everyone! I hope prepping for this coming school year is going well for you. Today I wanted to talk a little bit more in depth about creating a good, solid morning routine.
I have 5 kids ranging in age from 12-1 years old. So this morning list is for everyone but my little guy. I’ve tried to keep it super simple, so the kids morning list is:
- Shower
- Get dressed
- Do your hair
- Eat Breakfast
- Clear your place
- Dishes away
- Dishwasher reloaded
- Brush your teeth
- Personal prayer
Each item on the list is worth a certain amount of points. If they complete this list without having to be reminded, AND it’s done by 8:30 they can earn a max of 70 points. If I have to remind them it’s -10.
I start reminding them at 8:00 if there are items they have not completed. And then after 8:30, whatever they have not completed they go negative for however many points those things are worth. If they didn’t unload the dishwasher they go -10 again.
These points they can also earn throughout the day for completing other assignments, helping their siblings, doing helpful work without being asked, etc. And they can get them taken away for poor behavior, like not responding after I’ve said their name twice, etc.
The points then can be cashed in for technology time or treats or cash. So I mention the points system because if we didn’t have that then my boys would just ignore the morning routine completely, unless I punished them, and them striving for a reward instead makes for a much more pleasant morning!
At 8:30 we start our scripture study. The list and scripture study are non-negotiable and consistent every day no matter what. What happens after that can vary greatly, but our mornings are consistent and my kids have gotten into a groove. It’s important to do this so that the rest of the day goes better.
On the off chance we miss the morning routine, those days are not as productive. So find what’s most important to you, make a list, and remember that it’s flexible, so make necessary changes as you go.
