Free Printable: Setting up a Simple Routine with Kids

Long summer days without the rushing and time constraints that come with the school year sound heavenly. Lazy days relaxing in the hammock and swimming until dark, then sleeping in and doing it all over again. Thats how I wanted my summer to go. But with two little ones running around, that just wasn’t realistic.

As an elementary school teacher, I know that kids thrive on routine. And setting up a simple routine always ensures smoother days but just the word “routine” seems to go against the care-free spirit of summer.

Let me assure you, though, having a routine doesn’t mean you have to stick to a strict schedule.

The simple, colorful printable below is all you need to get started.

It’s super customizable, and can be easily moved around to allow for impromptu picnics, or summer hikes that go longer than expected.

There are plenty of activities to get you started, plus a few blank slots that you can customize to fit your family’s preferences.

Click here to download!

How to Use the Printable:

Get a piece of paper and a pen, and start brainstorming how you would like the precious days left of summer to look.

Make a list of the things that you want to fill your remaining summer or upcoming fall days, including trips to the library, pool and playground, playing games, reading, and playing outside.

Then print the printable and fill in blank cards as necessary to make sure you have a card for each activity on your list.

Every day in our house looks a little different. Some days we will spend at the pool, while others might be primarily in the backyard.

But the one thing that never changes is our need to stay fueled up in order to have our best attitudes all day long.

If we get too wrapped up in our activities, either at home or out and about, and forget to plan to eat, things can go downhill quickly.

Some of our favorite summer snacks include fresh and dried fruit, cheese wedges, nuts, and easy, on-the-go Quaker® Chewy® Granola Bars.

And have you heard about the all-new Quaker® Chewy® Girl Scouts® Granola Bars? Brace yourself for 8 grams of whole grains, real chocolate chips and two new flavors: Girl Scout® Thin Mints® and Girl Scouts® Caramel Coconut, topped with chocolaty drizzle.

I ask you, what kid wouldn’t go crazy over this special treat?

Once everyone is fueled up and full, it’s time to consult the schedule for what’s up next.

The great thing about this printable is that it can be used in so many different ways. After printing, you can glue the paper to a magnet and use them on your fridge. You can also use push pins and stick them on a bulletin board.

Or you can do like us and use washi tape to tape them up on the wall. This method is super easy and allows you to put this up anywhere you want.

Since this routine chart can be used just about anywhere, I set it up right by the breakfast table. We keep all of the cards in a jar on a side table.

Then as we eat our breakfast, we talk about our plan for the day, and stick the cards on the wall. Both of my kids get so excited when I tell them what things are in store for the rest of the day.

Having a simple routine for our summer helps us to make the most of our days, instead of wasting half the day figuring out what we are going to do. Everyone knows what to expect for the day, and instead of complaining about being bored, they can look forward to the trip to the library, or whatever other fun activity that we have planned.

For even more summer fun inspiration, check out our first Oat Authority post: