Cardinal John Foley School

As we come to the end of our first full week of school, students are beginning to settle into the routines that will guide their days. Although routines may seem simple, they play an important role in helping children feel safe and secure. When students know what to expect, they can focus their attention on the moment at hand rather than being distracted by wondering or worrying about what will happen next.

Schools establish routines for nearly every part of the day—from arriving in the morning and moving through the hallways to participating in class and preparing to go home. These routines help create an orderly and peaceful environment in which students understand what is expected of them. As these patterns become familiar, students gain confidence, develop independence, and are better able to focus their energy on learning and building relationships with others.

Routines at home provide that same valuable sense of consistency. A predictable morning routine helps children arrive at school prepared and ready to be students. An evening routine gives them time to wind down, talk about their day, and take a break from electronics before bedtime. Adequate sleep allows their minds and bodies to receive the rest they need to learn, manage their emotions, and remain physically healthy.

Establishing routines takes time and patience, especially at the beginning of a new school year, but that consistency is a gift we give our children. Together, the routines established at school and at home provide the security children need to grow in confidence, embrace each day’s opportunities, and become the best students—and people—they can be.