Caregivers gathered Tuesday at the Whelan School for two workshops focused on building structure, reducing stress, and strengthening family connections through consistent daily routines. The sessions — Caregiver Routines Workshop and Family Routine Strategy Session — highlighted the value of predictability, collaboration, and an assertive caregiver in creating smoother mornings and more peaceful evenings.
During the Caregiver Routines Workshop, Whelan School Adjustment Counselor Rebecca Roge discussed the importance of maintaining consistency to avoid power struggles with children. Roge emphasized that clear expectations and calm, predictable routines give children a sense of security and control. Caregivers were encouraged to praise cooperation and reinforce teamwork at home.
Sleep emerged as a major theme, with Roge recommending 12 hours of rest for both children and adults to support brain function, emotional balance, and physical health. Roge suggested establishing bedtime rituals, such as reading, to help children unwind and feel emotionally connected. Families were also urged to limit screen time at least two hours before bedtime to avoid overstimulation.
The conversation touched on the balance between a gentle and assertive approach, often referred to as “tough love.” One caregiver emphasized that setting firm boundaries and clear rules helps children develop respect and self-discipline, particularly during key developmental stages. Consistency, she said, is crucial — both in discipline and in daily structure.
Morning routines received equal attention, with the group of caregivers exploring strategies for calm, organized starts to the day. Caregivers were encouraged to assign specific responsibilities — like dressing, eating breakfast, and packing bags — and to foster independence by allowing children to take ownership of these tasks over time. Taking breaks and using calming techniques when tensions rise were also recommended to reduce stress for both caregivers and children.
The second session, the Family Routine Strategy Session, expanded on these ideas, focusing on practical tools and visual aids. Whelan School Adjustment Counselor Jacob Nyklicek demonstrated how visual schedules can help children, especially younger ones, understand and anticipate their daily tasks. Families were encouraged to co-create their routines together, turning potential conflicts into collaborative planning.
The workshop also introduced free online resources and templates, including examples from Teachers Pay Teachers and materials accessible via QR code through the Massachusetts Partnership. These tools aim to help caregivers design personalized morning and evening routines that fit their family’s needs.
Participants concluded by sharing strategies they plan to try at home, such as new bedtime rituals, visual charts, or updated family agreements around responsibilities. The workshops closed with an invitation for caregivers to continue the conversation and share their successes in future sessions.
Together, the two sessions underscored a clear message: consistent routines don’t just make the day run smoother — they build confidence, independence, and emotional stability for the entire family.
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