It’s likely that many of us have some sort of routine, from a work routine, bedtime routine, or even a skincare routine. Routine is important to us all in different ways and for many reasons.
In a nutshell, routine can help us with…
- Efficiency- allowing you to streamline tasks.
- Better time management- learning to allocate time effectively, making the most of your day.
- Reduction of stress- having structure can reduce stress and anxiety levels.
- Improved wellbeing- routine can help with allocating time to eat well, exercise and focus on your own needs.
- Better Sleep- waking and sleeping at consistent times can improve sleep and energy levels.
- Focus- focusing on specific tasks improves concentration and productivity.
- Good habits- repeating positive parts of your routine over time creates better habits.
- Sense of control- leading to an increase in confidence and a more positive outlook.
For severely disabled, life-limited and life-threatened children and their parents, routine is yet another method of survival for them, a way to make their lives, which are filled with so much responsibility, things to remember and pressure, a little bit easier to manage.
Whilst sleep may be non-existent, a routine can help the day ahead, that they have to face with little sleep, seem more manageable.
Whilst routine doesn’t ease the huge responsibility and care the parents need to provide on a daily basis, it can offer a level of comfort knowing that they are as prepared for whatever the day has in stall for them.
One of our JHT children enjoying a cuddle whilst napping during his respite session.
Here at the James Hopkins Trust, we aim to support these families and appreciate the importance of their routines. Our regular day time respite sessions allow parents to factor into their routine a full 5.5 hours of weekly respite care for their young disabled child. This can alleviate some of the stress they may feel on other days of the week as they know that they will be able to get certain tasks done on a set day, at set times.
We also consider the routine that the children have and whilst in our care, try to adhere to it as much as possible, whether that be napping at a certain time or having a snack, should they be able to have one. This not only helps the children feel secure and comfortable but it also provides parents with peace of mind in knowing that they are able to have time away from their child but that their routine is maintained.
Each and every one of us have routines of some kind but for parents of disabled children, it is a must. Their child’s life may even depend on it and that is a huge weight to be holding. Whilst many of us are fortunate to not be in that position, we can all help those that are by ensuring that the regular respite we offer can continue by donating money or fundraising for us.
Overall, having a routine in your daily life can bring structure, stability, and improved well-being, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.