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GETTING UP AND OUT IN THE
MORNINGBuilding the Routines That Start Your Day
IF EVER A ROUTINE was sorely needed, it’s for getting the kids up and
out of the house in the morning. This is a problem for grammar-
school kids, but it can also be an issue for preschoolers, high school
students, and even spouses. Morning often brings out the worst in
everybody. Many people—both parents and kids—are naturally
crabby at this point, and there is the additional strain of having to get
someplace on time. The pressure, nervousness, and emotional
thunderstorms that can result have ruined many a parent’s day.
For the kids, the morning routine involves a whole sequence of
Start behaviors: (1) getting out of bed; (2) bathroom, washing up, and
brushing teeth; (3) getting dressed; (4) eating breakfast; and (5)
leaving the house on time with the right equipment. What is required