TIP of the WEEK: Daily Schedules
One of the easiest and most effective ways of easing the anxiety of our kids with PWS is to be sure that they know what to expect each day. A daily schedule will not only diminish stress but will save you from the “what’s next” set of questions that will start at sun up and not end until bedtime. Many of our kids have difficulty telling time and understanding time frames. “At 10:30″ or ” in a half hour” doesn’t always mean anything to the kids that have challenges with time. Our kids do very well with sequential schedules. Scheduling non preferred activities before preferred activities will help make transitions easier and less hectic. For example:
- Wake up
- Shower/bath/ brush teeth
- Breakfast
- Arts and crafts
- Clean your room
- Snack
- Outside activity
- Practice reading/math/ADL skills
- Lunch
- Tv time
Notice that the activities following the most preferred activities (usually meals and snacks) are not the least preferred activities. Save those for right before meals and snacks. Time and time frames should be taught but the daily schedule should be more focused on sequence to be sure that your child understands it easily. A daily schedule will give our kids peace of mind and anything that can reduce stress is always a good thing!
Submitted by:
Patrice Carroll
Manager of PWS Services
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