If your child has difficulty staying organised, you are not alone. Establishing a routine can help them manage daily tasks more effectively. This article will provide actionable steps to create a structured routine, helping both you and your child feel more in control.

By reading on, you will learn how to build a personalised routine, strategies to keep your child engaged, and tips for maintaining consistency. We will also explore how ADHD might impact organisation and where to seek professional support if needed.

A consistent routine offers predictability, which can ease anxiety and improve focus. For children with organisational challenges, including those with ADHD, routines provide a framework that simplifies complex tasks and reduces daily stress.

Start by listing essential tasks such as getting ready for school, homework, meals, and bedtime. Break down each task into smaller steps to make them manageable.

Example: Morning Routine: Wake up → Brush teeth → Get dressed → Eat breakfast → Pack school bag

Use a visual schedule tailored to your child’s age and preferences. Younger children may benefit from pictures, while older kids might prefer written checklists or apps.

Tips:

• Use a whiteboard or printed chart.
• Include symbols or pictures for easy reference.

Be specific and realistic about what your child can achieve. Set tasks appropriate for their age and developmental level.

Example: A five-year-old might pack their lunchbox with supervision, while a ten-year-old can handle packing their entire school bag.

Children need breaks to recharge. Schedule downtime after school or homework to prevent overwhelm.

Tip: Consider using a timer for breaks to help your child transition back to tasks.

Celebrate successes, no matter how small. Praise your child for following their routine, and consider reward systems if appropriate.

Example: “You did a great job getting ready on time this morning—well done!”

While consistency is key, life can be unpredictable. If a routine is disrupted, calmly explain the change and how to adjust.

Tip: Use phrases like, “Today we’re doing something different, but tomorrow we’ll return to our usual schedule.”

Allow your child to participate in designing their routine. This boosts their sense of ownership and motivation.

Tip: Ask, “What part of the day do you want to plan first?”

If your child has ADHD, creating a routine can be especially helpful but may require extra support. Consider these ADHD-specific strategies:

• Use Alarms and Timers: These can act as reminders for transitions.
• Provide Step-by-Step Instructions: Give clear, simple directions.
• Use Consistent Cues: Use the same phrases or signals to indicate the next activity.

Solution: Involve your child in creating the schedule and offer choices when possible.

Solution: Use checklists or reminder apps.

Solution: Establish a simple, clear routine and adjust only when necessary.

If your child continues to struggle with organisation despite a well-structured routine, consider seeking professional guidance. Persistent challenges could be a sign of ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions.

At KPI:Access, we specialise in assessing and supporting children with ADHD and related conditions. Our team of compassionate specialists provides expert-led assessments tailored to each child’s unique needs. If you believe your child could benefit from additional support, reaching out for a professional evaluation can be a positive next step toward helping them thrive.

KPI:Access is dedicated to providing accessible and affordable ADHD assessments for children and adults. Our expert team, led by neurodevelopmental specialist Dr. Chinwe Osuchukwu, has extensive experience in diagnosing and supporting individuals with ADHD and related conditions.

• Comprehensive ADHD Assessments: Our team conducts in-depth evaluations tailored to your child’s unique needs.
• Expert-Led Care: Led by Chinwe Osuchukwu, a Consultant Paediatrician with over 13 years of experience.
• Fast and Flexible Appointments: Get seen by our clinical team within days, without needing a GP referral.
• No Exclusions Policy: Every child booked receives a full assessment, ensuring no one is left behind.

Dr. Chinwe Osuchukwu: “An ADHD diagnosis can open a world of opportunities, providing children with essential tools to handle challenging behaviours and excel in difficult situations, thereby helping them reach their full potential.”

If you believe your child might benefit from an ADHD assessment, contact KPI:Access today. We are here to guide you every step of the way.

By following these steps, you can create a supportive and effective routine for your child, helping them build essential organisational skills while fostering independence and confidence.