By establishing daily routines, fathers provide children with structure and a sense of security in a constantly changing world. The right routines grant us and our family superior health—mentally, physically, financially, socially, and spiritually. If we allow smart routines to guide our daily lives, we will experience better health, fulfillment, and prosperity. If we don’t, we are more susceptible to illness, anxiety, and poverty.

Morning Routines
Morning routines (or the lack thereof) can set the whole family up to start the day with light and happiness (or whining and misery). Education pioneer, Maria Montessori, said, “Any child who is self-sufficient, who can tie his shoes, dress or undress himself, reflects in his joy and sense of achievement the image of human dignity, which is derived from a sense of independence.” Making the bed helps start the day off with a small victory, providing winning momentum into our morning checklist: brushing teeth, bathing / showering, getting dressed, and so on. Thus presentable, we eat to “break” the overnight “fast,” replenishing glucose levels and other essential nutrients to revitalize ourselves as we prepare to take on the day.

Quality sleep is fundamental for healthy living; its importance cannot be overstated. If we want any hope of getting our children to adopt healthy morning routines, make sure they are getting enough sleep.

Recommended Daily Sleep Hours (including naps):

• newborns: 14-17 hours
• 4-12 months: 12-16 hours
• 1-2 years: 11-14 hours
• 3-5 years: 10-13 hours
• 6-12 years: 9-12 hours
• 13-18 years: 8-10 hours
• 19-60 years: 7+ hours
• 61-64 years: 7-9 hours
• 65+ years: 7-8 hours

Morning routines flow better with a bit of preparation the night before. Lunch and clothes prep, having a centralized location for day starter items like backpacks, keys, and phones can all move the needle, even if just a smidge.

“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”
—Psalm 118:24

Afternoon Routines
From one family to another, the afternoon activities and obligations of fathers, mothers, and children range tremendously. As parents manage the ebb-and-flow of afternoon routines, good planning and teamwork can set the stage for the whole family to live full and vibrant lives.

Fathers should teach children to fulfill responsibilities and obey the family rules such as completing homework, doing chores, and following curfew. With mutual respect, reasonable expectations, and transparency, let’s help each other make the most of the afternoon before coming together as a family at night.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” —Matthew 5:16 KJV

Bedtime Routines
Healthy paternal guidance designs a regular flow of consistent, structured expectations (such as brushing teeth and reading stories) to be carried out before bed every night. When children relax and wind down as the evening progresses, they are more prepared for a good night’s sleep. Predictable bedtime routines offer comfort and security, allowing kids to learn and follow a sequence that helps them fall asleep on their own.

Adults
Typically, we get our best rest when we stop eating within two hours of bedtime. More of a suggestion than a rule, there’s no need to go to bed hungry. If we need a snack, try to choose popcorn or mixed nuts over sugary treats. Turn off electronic devices. Consider the ambiance and lower the lights. Maybe set the thermostat low to encourage the fam to climb between comfy sheets. Washing up and brushing teeth should be standard operating procedure. Set the alarm. Read. Pray.

Children
A good night’s sleep is the #1 ingredient for a good day. Consistently, each evening, gently calm kids’ hearts by instilling ready and obedient attitudes and behaviors. As bedtime approaches, lots of toddlers struggle with separation anxiety; a stuffed animal or comfort blanket can offer reassurance. We can discourage some resistance to bedtime by asking children to take the lead with big decisions, such as which pajamas to wear, which book to read, or taking the lead with nighttime prayers.

If children give us a hard time about going to sleep at bedtime, try giving them “autonomy,” by saying, “Bobby, you can go to bed anytime you’d like between 8:30 and 9:00, it’s up to you. Whether 8:30, 8:40, 8:50, whenever you want, it’s up to you.” When children feel like they have a say, this “ownership” helps with compliance. For avid readers, we can help them get into bed by telling them they can stay up for an extra half hour to read after we tuck them in.

Bedtime stories can help extend the parent-child connection for just a little while longer at the end of the day. Thank God for our blessings, ask for His protection, and that His Will be done. When it’s time for lights-out, calmly and firmly say, “I love you, goodnight,” and leave the room.

Summary
American author John C. Maxwell wrote, “You’ll never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret to your success is found in your daily routine.” The strengths and weaknesses of our daily routines correspond with the levels of order and chaos in our lives. We get to choose; choose wisely.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”
—Matthew 11:28-29 KJV