Why Routines Matter
Once the excitement of Christmas has passed, many adults feel a quiet sense of relief at the thought of getting back into routine. While the festive season is joyful, it’s also busy, noisy, and unpredictable.
Routine helps both adults and children feel safe, calm, and in control. When we know what’s happening and when, it’s easier to relax — and this is especially true for children.
Children don’t just like routine.
They need it.
Why Children Struggle When Routine Is Disrupted
When routines change, children experience:
- a different environment,
- increased sensory input,
- less predictability.
These, combined, can make children feel out of control and therefore anxious. When we are anxious, our behaviour changes. In order for children to feel calmer and happier, they need to feel safe and in control of their day. As we know, calmer and happier children lead to a calmer and happier life for the whole family.
Why Visual Symbols?
One of the most effective ways to help children feel in control is by showing them what’s happening, rather than just telling them.
Pictures, or visual symbols, are much easier for children to process than spoken instructions. As soon as we speak, the words disappear and a child can forget what they were told. Visual symbols, on the other hand, stay visible for as long as the child need to look at them, and a child can keep checking back as many times as they need to. This also allows them additional processing time.
Furthermore, when a child hears verbal instruction followed by verbal instruction, (which can unintentionally turn into nagging), these instructions start to build and can start to feel overwhelming. This is especially true if a child is struggling to process each instruction. When demands build up, children may respond by shouting, becoming upset, or shutting down. Visual symbols don't repeat themselves or use a different tone of voice - they just stay the same, for the child to process in their own time. Pictures are easier to process than words.
What Is a Visual Timetable?
A visual timetable is a simple chart that uses easy-to-understand pictures, known as visual symbols, to show a child what is happening throughout their day. It allows children to:
- Process information at their own pace
- Check what’s happening as often as they need to
- Experience fewer surprises
- Feel in control of transitions and routines
This reduces anxiety, supports independence, and helps your child feel calmer and more confident.
Visual Timetable for Children – Designed by a Mum and a Teacher
Our Visual Timetable for Children includes 35 simple visual symbols based around everyday family life. It was designed by me — a mum and former teacher — with real children and real homes in mind.
I’ve included as many relevant visuals as possible to support:
- Morning routines
- After-school routines
- Bedtime routines
- Transitions throughout the day
Many parents tell me this visual timetable has been a complete game changer for their family life.
Ready to create a calmer home?
If you’d like to find out more about our visual timetables, or are just after some advice about how you visual symbols could support your child, please feel free to contact us.
Wishing you the best of luck as you get back into your January routine.
Gina