Why Are Routines Important?

 

Routines play a powerful role in helping boys feel secure, capable and ready to learn. While childhood can be full of change and excitement, predictable daily patterns provide a steady foundation that supports boys both emotionally and academically.

Research shows that stable routines are strongly linked with positive outcomes for children. In fact, consistent routines are associated with:

  • positive self-esteem and optimism
  • stronger social skills
  • reduced problem behaviours
  • greater school readiness
  • improved academic achievement (David et al. 2015)

For boys, routines can be especially valuable. They help remove uncertainty, reduce stress, and create clear expectations about what comes next. Over time, routines become habits – and habits shape the way children approach learning, friendships, and challenges.

Building habits that last

As much as we like to think our actions come from careful decision-making, most of what we do each day is guided by unconscious habits. Children are no different. Boys thrive when good habits are introduced early, giving them tools they can rely on as they grow.

Stanford psychologist B.J. Fogg suggests that behaviour change happens in just three main ways:

  1. Having an epiphany
  2. Changing the environment
  3. Taking small steps

For families, it’s often the third approach – taking small steps – that is the most practical and effective. Simple routines repeated each day can gradually build lifelong habits and help boys develop confidence and independence.

Everyday routines that support boys

At home, routines don’t need to be complicated. Small, consistent actions can make a big difference, such as:

  • getting ready for school at the same time each morning
  • packing bags and preparing clothes the night before
  • setting regular times for meals, homework and rest
  • creating calming bedtime routines to support good sleep
  • encouraging responsibility through simple household tasks

These patterns help boys know what to expect and allow them to focus their energy on learning, playing and growing.

In the end, routines are not about rigidity – they are about creating a supportive structure that helps boys feel safe, capable and ready to thrive, both at home and beyond.

For more on this topic visit the Crowther Centre

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