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Calmer routines

Calmer routines

Turn daily struggles into playful moments of connection and teamwork!

Getting kids to cooperate with daily routines can feel like a never-ending struggle - but play can help! Whether it’s getting dressed, brushing teeth, or heading out the door, sometimes power struggles and delays can be calls for small moments of connection amidst our rushed and busy schedules.

Laughter, imagination, and games can be transformative in making daily transitions smoother and more fun for everyone. And these moments of playfulness can work even better when you use them outside of stressful moments too, as a natural part of your day.

Because sometimes, a little play is all it takes to turn "just do it" into "let’s do it together!".

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38 play ideas in Calmer routines

Motivation sprinkles
Motivation sprinkles
A playful ritual to try when someone needs a dash of encouragement or motivation
0m
2m
  ·  connect
Mindful tea break
Mindful tea break
A gentle self-care play idea - making a cup of tea slowly and mindfully. By engaging your senses at each step, you can turn an everyday routine into a grounding ritual of rest, presence, and play.
1m
5m
Pretend magic scooter
Pretend magic scooter
Turn an ordinary walk into an extraordinary adventure by pretending to ride magical scooters with endless powers and silly surprises. A perfect way to connect, distract from tired legs, and spark imaginative fun on the go.
0m
10m
  ·  connect
Listen to a podcast / audiobook
Listen to a podcast / audiobook
A great alternative to screen time, podcasts and audiobooks can invite calm and entertainment into your day without the overstimulation.
1m
30m
Fold me like laundry
Fold me like laundry
A calming, playful ritual where you gently "fold" your child’s body up part by part as if they were laundry. It helps release tension, invites giggles, and creates a mindful moment of connection when big feelings take over.
0m
3m
  ·  connect
Nature spotting
Nature spotting
Transform an ordinary walk by noticing small details in nature. A simple way to slow down, connect with the outdoors, and rediscover everyday wonder.
0m
10m
Cover me
Cover me
Let the kids cover you with blankets & cushions while you get a mini rest!
1m
10m
What's on my bum?
What's on my bum?
A hilarious sensory guessing game that gets lots of giggles and builds body awareness.
1m
5m
Rhyme chain game
Rhyme chain game
A giggly memory game where you take turns to build a rhyme together
0m
5m
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Build a story
Build a story
Take turns adding a couple of lines each to create a funny, surprising, and completely unique story together!
0m
20m

Find more ways to play

Get some you-time
Get some you-time
Build connection
Build connection
Learn through play
Learn through play
Play for your inner child
Play for your inner child
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