For Kids & Families

For Providers

The Power of Daily Routines: How Kinspire Helps Families with Developmental Differences Thrive Morning, Noon, & Night

Lily Baiser MS, OTR/L

Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer

Family gathered around the table making breakfast

As we approach the back-to-school season, the importance of daily routines becomes more critical than ever. Establishing and maintaining routines can be a game-changer for families with children who have developmental differences. These routines provide structure, stability, and a sense of predictability that can greatly benefit both parents and children.

The Five Benefits of Creating Routines for Children with Developmental Differences

Overview of a sample bedtime routine in Kinspire

1. Enhanced Predictability 📅

Children with developmental differences often find comfort in predictability. Routines provide a sense of security and reduce anxiety by allowing them to know what to expect throughout the day.

2. Improved Time Management

Routines help children learn how to manage their time effectively. This skill is essential for school and daily tasks, fostering independence and self-esteem.

3. Smooth Transitions 🔄

Children with developmental differences may struggle with transitions. Routines create a smoother flow between activities, reducing meltdowns and stress.

4. Skill Development 🧩

Routines can be tailored to incorporate specific skills your child needs to develop, whether they are related to fine motor skills, communication, or social interaction.

5. Enhanced Family Bonding 🤝

Routines provide opportunities for families to bond. Shared activities and consistent schedules create a sense of togetherness and strengthen family connections.

Mother dropping off child at school

Applicable Daily Routines for Families

Now that we've explored the benefits of routines for children with developmental differences, let's look at the various daily routines that can significantly impact your child's life:

🌅 Morning Routine: Start the day right with a structured morning routine that sets a positive tone.

🚗 Commute to School: Streamline your morning commute to school to reduce stress and anxiety.

🍽️ Mealtime Routines: Create a calm and enjoyable mealtime experience for your child.

🏫 After-School Activities: Organize after-school activities to keep your child engaged and learning.

🤸‍♂️ Physical Activities: Energize your child with fun physical activities that promote health and well-being.

🌳 Outdoor Playtime Adventures: Plan outdoor playtime adventures to encourage exploration and sensory experiences.

📚 Reading Time: Incorporate reading into your child's daily routine to foster a love for books and learning.

🧘‍♂️ Sensory Breaks: Schedule sensory breaks during the day to help your child regulate their sensory input.

👭 Social Skills and Playdates: Enhance your child's social skills and facilitate playdates with structured routines.

🧘‍♀️ Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help your child manage stress and emotions.

📝 Homework Routine: Diffuse homework battles by establishing a routine that supports focused learning.

😴 Bedtime Routine: Create a calming bedtime routine to ensure a restful night's sleep.

Child with sleepmask ready for bed.

How Kinspire Can Help

At Kinspire, we aim to make your daily routines not only manageable but enjoyable for your family. We understand that each family is unique, and that's why we've developed our "Routines & Choices" feature. This innovative tool allows you to work closely with your dedicated Kinspire Occupational Therapist to:

  • Build personalized routines tailored to your family's specific needs and preferences.

  • Test and adjust routines to ensure they work seamlessly for your child.

  • Optimize routines over time as your child's needs and skills evolve.

Here's how Kinspire's "Routines & Choices" feature can revolutionize your daily life:

1. We Start with the Hardest Part of Your Day:

We know that every family faces unique daily challenges. That's why we begin by identifying the most challenging part of your day. Whether it's getting ready in the morning, managing mealtime, or navigating bedtime, we work with you to pinpoint the areas where routines can have the greatest impact.

2. We Set Goals Together:

Once we've identified your daily challenge, your dedicated Kinspire Therapist will step in. They will gain a deep understanding of your current approach to that routine, taking note of what is and isn't working for your family. This crucial step ensures that we tailor our support to your specific needs and circumstances.

3. Personalized Routines at Your Fingertips:

Next, your dedicated therapist will craft a personalized routine designed to make that challenging part of your day more efficient and enjoyable for everyone involved. This routine will be loaded onto your Kinspire app, where you can easily follow it step by step and check off each activity as you go.

4. Share Videos and Feedback:

We believe in a collaborative approach to success. After implementing the routine, you have the option to share videos and feedback with your therapist directly through the app. This real-time feedback loop allows your therapist to gain valuable insights into how the routine is working for your family.

5. Continuous Improvement:

Your therapist will use the videos and feedback you provide to offer suggestions, tips, tricks, or make adjustments as needed. We are committed to finding the solutions that work best for you and your child. Through ongoing communication and refinement, we ensure that your routines evolve and adapt to your child's changing needs and your family's preferences.

Overview of a sample homework routine in Kinspire

In essence, Kinspire's "Routines & Choices" feature is not just about providing routines; it's about crafting solutions that are uniquely tailored to your family's journey. We take the hardest part of your day and turn it into an opportunity for growth, learning, and, most importantly, enjoyment. Together, we'll make each day a little easier and a lot more fulfilling.

Ready to Get Started?

It's time to optimize your family's daily routines and watch your child thrive. Take the first step by completing our Getting Started form and booking a free consultation. With Kinspire, you'll be matched with a dedicated therapist within 24 hours. Let's embark on this journey together!