Small daily rituals that help children feel secure

When the outside world feels uncertain it can be difficult for children to understand what is happening, but they feel way more than we realise.

The tension in our conversations, disruption of routine, the whispers. While we can’t control what happens in the world around us, we can create calm and a sense of safety at home.

Achieving this is easier than you think. Here are some simple but powerful rituals to help children feel secure, calm and connected.

Start the Day the Same Way

This might seem like nothing but starting the day in a predictable calm way gives them a sense of control before the day starts. Whether it is a slow cuddle in bed, getting up at the same time or having a regular breakfast meal they recognise this all signals to them that they are safe and life is steady. This is relevant to children of all ages.

A Daily Check-In

Checking in at the end of each day can go a long way to making kids feel supported and heard. The best time to do this is just before bed in a moment of calm by simply asking a question such as ‘What was the best part of your day?’ or ‘Did anything feel hard today?’.

Keep a Bedtime Ritual

Just like the importance of starting the day in the same way, ending it is just as important. This is a time when worries tend to surface so it is important to make sure that you keep a consistent wind-down routine to ensure that the nervous system stays regulated.

The Importance of Movement

Moving your body every day isn’t just about health but one of the quickest ways to reduce anxiety. This doesn’t have to be a difficult gym class, it can be a simple walk with family or a dance in the kitchen. A little goes a long way.

Moments of Calm

Creating a space in your home where calm is the focus can really help regulate a small nervous system and give space for emotions to be addressed. It teaches children to pause, reset and feel grounded, even when the outside feels anything but that.

Connect, without your phone

Just being around your kids isn’t enough to form the connection needed. What they really need is proper connection which means getting down to their level and looking them in the eye – really connecting! If you are distracted or on your phone you are missing what they are really trying to tell you, which is the most important part.

End Each Day with Reassurance

No matter how tricky the day has been it is important to end each day with consistent messages such as ‘you are safe’, ‘we are together’ and ‘I’ve always got you’.

Remember that during uncertain times, the consistency becomes their calm