These are more examples of important rituals to provide rhythm to a child’s life. Of course, not all of these would be possible or appropriate in every home. They are listed to stimulate ideas.
Get up at the same time every morning before school.
Have your own special spot or chair where you eat.
Go to school at the same time every morning.
Have the same person pick the child up every day after school.
Keep the same schedule to pick up the child.
Go to the park every Tuesday and Thursday.
Wash the car on Saturday.
Come to dinner at the same time; have a special way you call your children to dinner every night—bell or intercom with a simple message, “Dinner is ready. It’s time to come to dinner.”
Pick out tomorrow’s clothes the night before. (This one suggestion helps so much when a child resists getting dressed in the morning.)
Create a little routine before bed to wash face, brush teeth, and put on nightclothes, and start it at the same time every night. (This kind of rhythm is essential. All children need sleep, and a regular routine of getting ready for bed, at a certain time, makes them sleep much better, which in turn makes everything better.)
When receptive children get the rhythm they need, they develop great strength and organizing abilities. They can create order and maintain it. They are peaceful and practical and can overcome great obstacles to achieve their goals. They are very talented at comforting and consoling with loving support. They move slowly, but are very grounded and solid.