My Afternoon Routine is an interactive activity designed to help children recognise and identify their own afternoon routines.

Routines play a significant role in promoting mental health and well-being, providing a sense of structure, stability, and predictability. By engaging in this activity, children can develop a greater understanding of their daily activities and establish a calming and organised routine for themselves.
Key Features:

Action Squares: The activity includes a set of action squares representing various afternoon activities. Children can cut out these squares and place them on the provided routines chart. The action squares cover a range of common activities, such as homework, playtime, reading and hobbies. Additionally, blank squares are provided for children to add any activities that are not already listed.

Personalisation and Identification: By using the action squares, children can create their own individual afternoon routines. This process allows them to reflect on their daily activities, identify the tasks they engage in regularly, and recognise the sequence and duration of each activity. Personalising their routines helps children feel more in control, prepared, and calm.

Mental Health and Well-being: Engaging in a structured routine can have positive effects on mental health and well-being. Routines provide a sense of stability and reduce feelings of anxiety or uncertainty. By establishing an afternoon routine, children with autism, ADHD, or anxiety can benefit from increased predictability and a sense of accomplishment.

Benefits:

• Calmness and Preparedness: By creating and following their own afternoon routines, children experience a sense of calmness and preparedness. Having a structured routine allows them to anticipate and plan for their activities, reducing stress and promoting a sense of control.
• Regular routines contribute to positive mental health outcomes. By engaging in this activity, children develop a foundation for self-care, time management, and organisation. Routines can help alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of comfort and stability.
• Individualised and Adaptive: The activity allows for flexibility and personalisation, acknowledging that every child's routine may differ. Children can add or modify the action squares based on their unique preferences, interests, or responsibilities. This adaptability ensures that the activity is inclusive and relevant to each child's specific needs.

My Afternoon Routine is a valuable resource for parents, professionals, and teachers seeking to promote mental health, well-being, and a sense of routine among children. By engaging in this activity, children can develop essential life skills, enhance their self-awareness, and experience the positive impact of a structured routine on their overall mental health and happiness.