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Resources for Families

Tips to Keep Kids Structured


Ädelbrook | March 19, 2020
A child and a woman playing a board game together

We understand that there may be unique challenges for students with disabilities and this may be an especially stressful time for families. The first step in adjusting to this period of time is to maintain structure at home and keep students engaged in positive, productive activities. The following are some tips and suggestions to keep a structured schedule for kids.

  • Keep activities with start and end times
  • Have structured breaks
  • Allow for downtime
  • Keep routine
  • Allow for exercise and movement

 

Suggested Schedule

 

7:00–8:00

Wake Up: Morning Hygiene & Chores
Brush teeth, wash face, shower, apply deodorant, make bed

 


 

8:00–9:00

Breakfast
Help make breakfast (stir, pour, count), eat with family, clean up table, wash/dry dishes

 


 

9:00–10:00

Morning Movement
Morning yoga, walk outside and listen for animals

 


 

10:00–11:00

Creative Time
Music, art, virtual field trips, crafts

 


 

11:00–12:00

Academic Time
Reading, math, science experiments

 


 

12:00–1:00

Lunch Break
Help make lunch, eat with family, clean up table, wash/dry dishes

 


 

1:00–2:00

Chores
Laundry (wash, dry, fold), vacuum, sweep/mop, dust/sanitize

 


 

2:00–4:00*

Academic Time
Creative writing, writing letters/cards, speech & language, occupational therapy
*Take a 10-15 minute break around 3:00

 


 

4:00–5:00

Afternoon Fresh Air & Movement
Physical education, exercises and stretching, walk, hike, bike ride, catch or kick a ball

 


 

5:00–6:00

Free Time/Leisure
Board games, card games, reading, puzzles

 


 

6:00–7:00

Dinner Time
Help make dinner, eat dinner with family, clean up table, wash/dry dishes