The Power of Predictability: Why Routine Matters More Than Ever.

At Small Steps Learning, we work with neurodivergent children every day, and we’ve seen first-hand how predictable routines can make a profound difference. A well-established routine provides more than just order—it offers a sense of safety, control, and confidence that helps children thrive.

Why Routines Are So Important for Neurodivergent Children

Children with ASD or ADHD often struggle with:

• Executive functioning: organising tasks, managing time, and transitioning between activities

• Sensory regulation: coping with the noise, crowds, and unpredictability of school

• Emotional regulation: understanding and managing big feelings

Predictable routines create a roadmap for the day. They help reduce cognitive load, manage transitions, and lower stress—because when a child knows what’s coming next, they’re less likely to feel anxious or out of control.

Building Effective Routines for the start of term.

Here are some best-practice strategies to create calm, predictable days for your child.

1. Start and End the Day the Same Way

Create simple, consistent morning and evening routines. Use checklists or visual schedules that include:

Morning:

• Wake up

• Toilet

• Get dressed

• Eat breakfast

• Pack bag

• Brush teeth

• Leave for school

Evening:

• Dinner

• Homework or free time

• Bath or shower

• Brush teeth

• Quiet activity (reading, drawing, or listening to music)

• Bedtime

Tip: Use a visual schedule with icons or photos. Stick it somewhere your child can see, such as the fridge or their bedroom wall.

2. Use Predictable Transitions

Transitions—especially from preferred to non-preferred activities—can be triggering for neurodivergent kids. Help them move between activities calmly by:

• Giving 5-minute warnings ("In 5 minutes, we’ll pack up the iPad and get ready for tutoring.")

• Using timers or visual countdowns

• Having a consistent transition phrase, like “Time to shift gears”

3. Create a Weekly Rhythm

Children cope better when they know what’s coming during the week. Consider:

• A weekly calendar with school, tutoring, therapy, sports, or playdates

• Colour coding each activity

• Reviewing the plan each morning and again before bed

Tip: Involve your child in filling out the calendar—they’ll feel more in control.

4. Keep After-School Time Predictable

After-school is a common time for meltdowns, especially after holding it together all day. Establish a calming routine:

• Snack and downtime first

• Then homework or tutoring

• Then free time or preferred activities

Let your child know the order of things in advance, and keep it consistent across the week as much as possible.

5. Use Routines During Emotional Storms

When a child is dysregulated, a predictable response from adults helps them feel safe. Develop a calm-down routine they can practice when things get tough:

• Go to a quiet space

• Deep breathing or sensory tools

• A visual choice board (e.g., “Would you like to sit with your weighted toy or listen to music?”)

Practice this during calm times so it becomes familiar and automatic when emotions run high.

Routines Aren’t Rigid—They’re Supportive

Some parents worry that routines may feel inflexible, but for children with ADHD and autism, routines actually offer freedom. When they know what to expect, they have more energy to focus on learning, playing, and building social connections.

And remember: the goal is predictability, not perfection. Life happens—what matters is that your child can rely on the structure most of the time.

Need Help Creating a Routine That Works?

At Small Steps Learning, our experienced tutors and educators work with families to build customised routines and strategies that support each child’s unique needs. If you’d like help setting your child up for success this term, reach out—we’re here for you.

Contact us at smallsteps-learning.com
Learn more: www.smallsteps-learning.com