[Cynthia]

Creating a schedule that can be easy to follow for children. Having group activities so that they can socialize with other children and then have individual time for them to explore the area and learn new skills. Breakfast should be the first thing (after putting their stuff away) and then have other activities, something that makes sure to follow along with lunch. For maintaining the daily schedule, we should keep the same schedule everyday, but of course, they learn something different if that us what they want or if they are ready to move on.

[Royce]

Invite the children over to make the schedule as they are going to be the ones who are going to be following it. Allow input while also describing certain things on the schedule

[sabrina]

Allowing the children to help make the schedule and including meal times, indoor and outdoor activities, and sleep time.

[Chloe]

I think keeping the schedule simple and consistent is important so that children can understand the flow of the day and know what to expect.

At my last job, we would be very communicative with students, going over the plan for the day as well as having a schedule written on the white board, which helped them know when we would transition to different activities. We also provided warnings before each transition to prepare students for the upcoming activity.

[Amelia Rose]

Have a set plan on what activities will come next after each other, but providing no specific time so that it can be flexible towards daily circumstances. So example: wake up, get ready, eat breakfast, play, snack time, read book. But I don’t put associated times with it, you just do the next plan activity on the list.

[Hadya]

When setting up a daily schedule for kids, make sure it fits their age and needs. Mix structured activities with free play, and keep routines consistent to make them feel secure. Be flexible and adjust the schedule based on how kids are feeling and what they’re interested in. Use pictures or charts to help kids understand the day’s plan, and ensure all staff follow the same schedule. Regularly check if the schedule is working and make changes if needed, and let parents know about any updates to keep everything consistent.

[Ke'Lena]

I like to start with establishing a consistent routine, keeping meals , nap time, consistent for them starting with breakfast if they haven’t had already, after majority of them come in for the day as before that it would be free/playtime, breakfast, learning activity, craft time, play, lunch, nap, etc. Start little and balance those activities

[Esabel Jang]

To create and maintain an effective daily schedule for children, ensure consistency with regular timing for activities, meals, and rest periods. Incorporate a balanced mix of active and quiet times, and be flexible to adapt to individual needs and unexpected changes. Use visual schedules to help children understand and anticipate their day, and involve them in choosing activities to increase their engagement. Allow time for smooth transitions between activities to help children adjust comfortably.

[Dianna Arroyo]

Do you have any tips or advice on creating and maintaining a daily schedule for children?

I am creating looking into the creative curriculum for family childcare as a guidance. Definitely, follow infant and toddlers needs on demand. Create a schedule that can me flexible as needed for example-raining weather outdoors calls for indoor gross motor activities.

[Linda]

When creating a schedule I would plan meal times and nap time first and plan activities around that. I would involve the children into planning to make it more interactive and fun. I would also make my schedule is flexible so it can be adjusted in case changes need to be made through out the day.

[Fowsiya Abdulaziz]

Having schedule and routine is very important because children know what to expect. It should include breakfast, circle time, playtime, outdoor play, lunch, rest time, snack time.

[Lataya T]

Staying consistent with your daily schedule will be the best thing for staff and children.

[Kim Mullen]

One instructor gave me the idea to make the events of the day sound more interesting. For example, instead of “outside time” a more creative name could be “explorer time” or “wacky wilderness time”. This can help get kids interested and excited about an activity.

[Alejandra]

When creating a consistent schedule, you’ll have to pencil in the times that cannot be moved like snack/lunch times and nap times. then add in the recess and different activities like “work time”. Give yourself enough time for transitioning.

[Alexandra Hegge]

The first several weeks make sure you follow the schedule exactly once it becomes a habit the kids will have an easier time.