Many times when children have a problem, parents rush in to solve it. Parents think it's their job to solve the problem. For example, when children procrastinate doing heir schoolwork and almost miss (or even miss) the deadline, parents will often tell them what they need to do next time a project is due to get it done on time. When two children are fighting over the same toy, parents may just take away the toy or they may dictate who gets it first and for how long. How well

Routines help eliminate power struggles and give all family members ways to belong and contribute to the family. The benefits of routines are security, a calmer atmosphere, trust, and life skills for children. Children have an opportunity to focus on the needs of the situation. Children learn to be responsible for their own behavior, to feel capable, and to cooperate in the family. Routines help children become more independent. Children generally respond favorably to routi