Chaotic Routines? How Play That Builds Patience and Independence Can Help
The Problem
There was a stretch of time in our home when mornings felt like a sprint, evenings were a juggling act, and bedtime was anything but calm.
We found ourselves caught in a cycle of rushing, reminding, and reacting.
Realizing we had a Problem
One morning, as I was trying to pour coffee, pack a bag, and get shoes on tiny feet all at once, I realized the chaos wasn’t just exhausting for us—it was overwhelming for our child too.
That moment was a turning point.
We saw that the routines themselves weren’t the only issue—it was the lack of patience and independence in the flow of our days.
Everything depended on us stepping in, and that was draining for everyone.
We knew something had to change.
How We Began to Make a Change
We discovered that play wasn’t just about fun—it could be a tool for growth.
By choosing play that encouraged patience and independence, we started to see our child become more confident, more capable, and more willing to take part in routines without as much resistance.
Here are some ways that this kind of play can help ease chaotic routines:
Encourages Waiting Skills – Games and activities that involve taking turns or waiting help children practice patience in a safe, playful way.
Builds Independence – Play that gives children a role or responsibility teaches them they can do things on their own, easing the pressure on parents.
Creates Calm Moments – Quiet, focused play helps shift the energy from rushed and frantic to centered and calm.
Prepares Kids for Transitions – Play can be used as practice for transitions, making routines like getting ready for bed or leaving the house smoother.
Strengthens Confidence – When children see they can master skills during play, they bring that confidence into daily routines.
We didn’t need to overhaul everything at once.
By weaving in small amounts of purposeful play, we noticed routines that once felt like battles started to flow a little easier.
A Message to You
If your routines feel overwhelming, we want you to know—you’re not alone.
We’ve been there, in the middle of mornings that felt impossible and evenings that ended in frustration.
We still stumble and we’re far from perfect, but incorporating play that builds patience and independence has made a real difference in our home.
It won’t erase every struggle, but it can create more space for calm, connection, and growth.
And even small wins matter.
We share these pieces of our journey not as experts, but as fellow parents navigating the same messy, beautiful challenge of raising a child.
The Browns
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