Setting up Routines

Setting up routines   

Generally, playgroups do have some kind of routine. This may be fluid and free flowing, following the interests of the children or it may include set times for different activities.

There is no right or wrong amount of structure or routine. 

Some advantages of having a routine include:   

• Children can participate and try a range of activities that enhances children’s gross and fine motor skills, language development, and social, emotional and cognitive development .  
• Children and adults know what to expect .
• Routine can help prepare children for more formal learning .  
• Ensures the group is ready to leave the venue when their allotted time is up.   
• Issues around safety can be more effectively managed. For example, the consumption of hot drinks kept to morning teatime or the use of scissors during craft time.  
• Keeping the playgroup running smoothly and sharing tasks.   

 When thinking about planning a routine, remember to take into consideration that the ages and stages of the children change over time, so the routine may also need to change.  

Having a simple routine can be a great way to introduce some structure to your group if that is what the group wants. Setting a timetable for different activities during the session can help to make children feel settled and confident at playgroup.

The schedule might include time for indoor and outdoor play, set activity times such as craft, morning tea, packing up time, story and music time with a goodbye song. Examples of playgroup routines can be found here. 

Baby playgroups will need a more fluid routine, as they may be feeding and sleeping at different times throughout the play time.

Older children may enjoy a more structured schedule of activities to keep them active and interested, but this will always depend on the individual needs of each playgroup. 

We recommend that each playgroup session discuss the kinds of activities and routines they want for their group. This can be done informally over a coffee or at a planning or committee meeting after feedback has been gathered from families attending.   

Playgroup routines might also include activities such as washing hands before eating and sitting down for morning tea and story time. Keep in mind that children develop differently and that it is always important to be flexible in applying your playgroup rules. Some children may need support from a parent or significant adult to gradually participate in routines.   

The important thing about routines is that ideally they need to reflect the interests and needs of the children and adults attending the playgroup session which can change over time.  It is a good idea for playgroups to review their routines from time to time to ensure that it is meeting the needs of everybody. Periodically the group could make time to talk about the routine and, where necessary, make changes to ensure the environment continues to be stimulating, nurturing, safe and comfortable for all the families attending.