1. Set a schedule.<\/h3>\n
When children know what happens first, next and last, it reduces the need for you to give constant reminders. Children become more self-directed as a result of an established routine.<\/p>\n
2.Start the routine with a healthy breakfast.<\/h3>\n
Eating a well-balanced breakfast including adequate amounts of protein provides the brain with the nutrients to function well. Research shows children who eat a healthy breakfast a have a more stable mood throughout the day. Eating sugary cereal, doughnuts or sweetened juices will result in the brain needing food again only 30 minutes later. The brain then feels stress and releases stress chemicals. As a result a child may experience feelings of agitation, aggression and anxiety. Young developing brains do not yet know how to control all of these feelings. This is why it is called, \u201cout of control\u201d behavior.<\/p>\n
3.Ensure everyone has had enough sleep.<\/h3>\n
Sleep enhances cognitive functioning and influences moods. Having enough sleep contributes to a more positive mood. When the brain lacks the sleep it needs, brain systems become out of balance. Children\u2019s (and adult) brains become more easily agitated when sleep deprived.<\/p>\n
4.Do all you can to keep bedtime and bedtime routines as consistent as possible.<\/h3>\n
Provide calm activities like reading a book, giving a massage, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music as part of the bedtime routine. Eliminate watching television or using other electronics with bright lights prior to bedtime routines. Provide \u201cbrain calming\u201d foods as a bedtime snack such as warm milk, a banana, toast with almond butter or oatmeal with a bit of peanut butter added.![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.mops.org\/images\/cms_images\/routines-are-important-1.jpg" "\\"\\"")
Generation Happy community. Tweet with Happy Family that same evening from 6-7pm MT using #happychat to continue the conversation.<\/p>\n