New parents quickly realize that babies need established routines, and as our children grow, the need for consistency and routine does not go away. Setting naptimes, bath time, bedtimes, meal times, as well as time to study or do homework, brings a predictable element to their day and helps to develop a sense of security and stability in a child. Maintaining a predictable routine has been found to be instrumental in limiting behavioral problems for children, and can greatly reduce stress for parents as well.
In the classroom, the need for establishing and maintaining routine is also critical. As a Catechist, I have found that routine in the classroom provides significant benefits making the 1 hour and 15 minutes of class time we spend together each week much more productive, and frankly more enjoyable.
3 Benefits of Establishing a Routine in the Classroom
Makes Lesson Planning Easier
For the Catechist, knowing the routine helps when it comes to lesson planning. The routine virtually leads me step by step through the process. It serves as my outline, and I can fill in the blanks with material, activities, bible study, prayers, etc. I have always loved being a Catechist, but to be completely honest, much of my initial experience had been frustrating because of my own disorganization and inability to control the classroom. The first time I was able to plan a lesson and then have it play out in the classroom as planned was exhilarating, and a big boost to my confidence.
Fewer Distractions and Saves Time
A good routine helps to limit student movement in the classroom, or at least direct it where you want it to go. When your students know what they are supposed to be doing at any given time, there will naturally be less distractions, resulting in less time wasted explaining and re-explaining things to them. When someone comes in late they are easily able to jump right in without distracting the rest of the class. When someone needs to leave early, there should be a routine for that as well so as to minimize disruption.
Students are Focused and Engaged
A predictable routine will allow students to quickly become well-versed in the flow of the class, and what comes next. This creates an environment where it’s easier for them to focus and be engaged in the lesson, making it easier for them to learn.
One word of caution – change can happen when you least expect it. A few weeks ago my class was assigned a different room to meet in because our regular classroom was not available. This one little divergence from our established routine was enough to cause considerable chaos. The chairs were set up differently so, no one was sure where to sit, I generally use an overhead projector which has cues for the students, and I didn’t have access to that kind of technology in the new room. I had underestimated and was unprepared for how a change in our physical setting could throw our class into disorder and confusion. The resulting class was not the best experience, but it taught me the importance of having a backup plan!
© 2018 Catechist’s Aide