Getting Back Into A Normal Routine Post-COVID

 

With schools and daycare centers closed, and many people working from home, COVID-19 has probably completely disrupted your normal day-to-day routine. Even though things aren’t quite back to normal just yet, it’s important to start trying to get back to a more regular routine.

Aim for a daily routine

Even if your kids aren’t back in school or their normal childcare arrangements, you can start to set up a daily routine so that things are happening at the same time each day. Get everyone up at a regular time, have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same time, and schedule in time for learning and play. 

 

Things might not be back to usual just yet, but setting up a stricter daily routine gives everyone a bit more structure to their day. It helps you to get back on track, ready for returning to school and work when it does happen. 

Incorporate regular playtime 

With schools closed your kids have probably been having lots of extra time to play, but even as you start to get back into a normal routine it’s important to still include regular playtime. It’s not just for your kids to have fun, playing helps kids to understand and learn a whole range of life lessons as well as key social skills. Plus play is a good time for kids to express themselves, and forget about all the upheaval and disruption that’s still happening. 

 

If your children are getting tired of the same old toys after months of being stuck at home, then monthly subscription boxes for kids such as the Sago mini box could be a perfect alternative. When you sign up, every month a new box will arrive filled with an exciting make-and-play activity. Each one is based around a different theme to keep your kids engaged and entertained for hours. 

Create a weekly schedule 

COVID-19 has thrown pretty much everything into uncertainty and plans are consistently being disrupted. But it’s important to try and get back into the habit of planning out each week at the start. 

 

This gives your kids a clear idea of what they’re going to be doing whether it’s going out, just doing certain activities at home, or even household chores. It gives them something to look forward to and a bit more stability throughout the week, which will help with getting back to a normal routine. 

 

If you’re struggling to keep up with various schedules then use the Cozi Family Organizer to stay on top of everything. You can add in appointments, events, school commitments, and virtual class schedules, as well as track chores and share a grocery list with everyone. By adding a bit more organization to your week it’ll be a lot easier to get back to a normal routine. 

Get an early night 

It’s easy for bedtimes to get disrupted when you’ve fallen out of your regular routine. But getting to bed at the same, earlier, time each evening and getting a good night’s sleep is essential. 

 

Over a couple of weeks start to move bedtime forwards a bit every few days and implement a bedtime routine that helps your kids to unwind. Try to avoid watching television or looking at any screens for an hour or so before bedtime. Instead, get them settled in bed and read a story together so that they can fall asleep more easily.

 

You could also try using a sleep and mindfulness app like Moshi that’s designed to help kids fall asleep. Choose from audio stories or relaxing music to help kids wind down and fall asleep as you bring bedtime forward. 

 

If your kids are at the age where they have a nap during the day, aim to fit it in at the same time every day when possible. This also allows you to have a set time in the day to catch up with work or other bits and pieces. 

Prioritize play dates 

Socializing during the height of the pandemic was very difficult, but another important part of getting your kids back into a normal routine post-COVID is going to be setting up regular playdates. Arrange one or two playdates each week and meet up with another family in a local park or play area, wherever you and your kids feel safe. 

 

Ensuring your kids socialize with others on a regular basis, even if it has to be at a safe distance, is essential to their development and will help to prepare them for returning to school. Getting outside will also get them active and help them to burn off some energy. 

 

By following these steps you should be able to get you and your kids back to a more normal routine post-COVID and provide them with a bit more stability and reassurance.