The Importance of Routine and Structure

Routine and structure play a crucial role in the lives of both adults and children receiving services from Waves, Inc. These elements provide a sense of stability, predictability, and comfort that can significantly enhance the quality of life and developmental progress for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As we approach the holiday season, the importance of routine and structure for our recipients becomes even more crucial. 

Benefits for Children

For children in Waves’ Early Learning Program, consistent routines and structured activities are essential for their growth and development. A predictable daily schedule helps children feel safe, secure, and comfortable in their environment [1]. This sense of security allows them to engage more fully in learning activities and develop important skills.

Routines help children:

  • Understand what is happening now and what comes next.
  • Learn how to perform everyday tasks.
  • Develop a sense of belonging and self-confidence.
  • Adjust to changes more easily as they grow older [1].

During the holidays, consistent routines are especially important as:

  • They help children feel secure when surrounded by unfamiliar holiday activities.
  • Routines provide a framework for integrating holiday traditions.
  • They can reduce anxiety associated with changes in daily life

At Waves, our Early Interventionists can guide families in adapting their routines to include holiday activities while maintaining essential structure [2]. Our Early Intervenioinsts help families integrate learning strategies into everyday moments like mealtimes, playtime, and bedtime[4]. This approach encourages growth in all areas of development and empowers parents and caregivers to support their child’s progress consistently.

Advantages for Adults

For adults with IDD receiving services from Waves, routines and structure continue to be vital. They provide:

  • A sense of control over one’s environment.
  • Reduced anxiety and stress.
  • Improved time management skills.
  • Enhanced independence in daily living activities.

During the holiday season, adults can also benefit from maintaining routines as:

  • They provide a sense of control during a time of many changes.
  • Structured activities can help adults participate in holiday events more comfortably.

Structured routines can help adults with IDD navigate their day-to-day lives more effectively, whether they’re participating in Waves’ employment programs, receiving support in residential settings, or receiving support at our Day Programs.

Implementing Holiday-Friendly Routines

As we dive further into holiday season. Here are some items to consider:

1. Incorporating holiday activities into existing routines

2. Using visual schedules to illustrate changes in daily activities

3. Maintaining core routines like mealtimes and bedtimes

4. Allowing for flexibility while preserving overall structure

The Role of Waves, Inc.

Waves recognizes the importance of routines and structure in empowering individuals with IDD to progress to their full potential [5]. Through their various programs and services, Waves supports clients and their families in developing and maintaining beneficial routines. By emphasizing the importance of routine and structure during the holidays, Waves helps ensure that both children and adults with IDD can enjoy the season while feeling secure and supported. This approach allows clients to participate in holiday joy while minimizing potential disruptions to their progress and well-being[2].

Waves, Inc. plays a crucial role in supporting clients and families through the holiday season:

  • Providing guidance on maintaining routines amidst seasonal changes
  • Offering strategies for integrating holiday activities into daily structures
  • Supporting families in managing potential stress and overstimulation

In the Early Learning Program, Waves provides play-based learning opportunities that can be integrated into daily routines [4]. For adult clients, Waves offers support in developing life skills and independence, which often involves creating and maintaining structured routines. These foundational elements create a stable environment that fosters growth, learning, and independence for all clients served by Waves.