Helping Kids Cope with Changes in Routine

Coping Skills: Tips for Changes in Routine

December 23, 2021

Janna Lopez, MS, OTR/L

The holiday season is full of changes that can disrupt a child’s routine. As a parent, you know that change can be hard for your child. They like to have a bedtime routine and will ask you several times a day what you’re going to do. Typically, adults are able to easily cope with change because we’ve had practice. Children, however, can sometimes be very affected by sudden or unexpected changes.

Tips & Tricks

Try these tips to help your child tolerate changes in routine:

Visit new places before big events in a pressure-free way. Make arrangements to visit the dentist’s office, friend’s house, or wherever you’re going beforehand so when the big day comes, their surroundings won’t be a surprise.
Watch a social story! Visit Youtube and search for social story videos about the event or routine change. Seeing another child have a positive experience with something new can help your child be more comfortable with the change. Here is an awesome social story about going to the dentist.
Use clear and simple language. It can be as simple as “First lunch, then ice cream.” Using simple two-step directions can help alleviate anxiety and lets your child know what is expected.
Use visual timers. Children can have a difficult time understanding the concept of time so a simple timer can be too abstract. A visual timer is a great way for them to visualize how long a non-preferred task will take. Visual timer apps include: “Countdown Timer” and “Time Timer”

If your child continues to have difficulty with changes in routine, or if their behaviors are affecting their daily functioning, our therapists would love to help. Visit our website at hoggtherapy.com or give us a call at 859-353-3666. You can also try our FREE Interactive Screening Tool to see if your child is on track!

Free Interactive Screening Tool

< Older Post

Newer Post >

When picky eating is more than just being a picky eater

July 1, 2026

By Mallory Goettl, MS OTR/L

The Power of Coloring

June 1, 2026

Coloring is more than just a fun activity, it is a powerful tool therapists use to help children build important developmental skills while keeping therapy engaging and playful. Coloring can support communication, movement, coordination, focus, and creativity all at the same time. Best of all, children often do not even realize how much they are learning because they are having fun! We recently hosted a coloring contest in our clinics, and the kiddos had so much fun showing their creativity! At the end of this post, we've included two coloring page designs that you can download, print, and color at home or on the go!