Okay, this might make me sound like a full on movie nerd, but surely we all love that moment in “10 Things I Hate About You”, when Kat lists all the things she “hates” but secretly loves about Patrick, right?

Well, today that movie is my muse, except I’m talking about a very different subject… visual routines.

Yep, that’s right. It may sound totally nerdy, but hear me out—visual routines are one of my all time fav tools, both at home and in early childhood classrooms.

So, without further ado, here are the 10 things I “love” about visual routines:

1. I love the calm they bring, even on the most chaotic of mornings.
   You know that feeling when the day starts with 50 unexpected things all happening at the exact same time? Visual routines give my kids (and me!) a little plan to follow, which also help to keep some of those big feelings in check.
   
   
2. I love how they reduce the “What’s next?” questions.
   Before we had our trusty visual routine, I’d often be mid-coffee, deep in my morning Instagram scroll, and then—bam!—another “What’s next?” Visual routines provide the answer right there in easy to interpret pictures.
   
   
3. I love how they make transitions less overwhelming.
   A visual routine lets children know what’s coming next—no surprises, no stress.
   
   
4. I love that they give children a sense of control.
   When kids don’t feel in control, it’s easy for them to feel overwhelmed.
   
   
5. I love how they support all children.
   Whether it’s the tiny babes or the children learning English, visual routines are a brilliant tool. They communicate what’s happening next without needing words, which can be such a game-changer.
   
   
6. I love how they keep the family on track.
   Our visual routine helps keep the day moving smoothly. From morning to bedtime, it’s a simple guide that ensures the day flows without too many bumps or hiccups, there is even a place for some screen time.
   
   
7. I love that they’re adaptable for any age group.
   Specifically, Second Scout's Little Agenda as it has a bunch of sets so you can customise for your child.
   
   
8. I love that they add rhythm without the concrete structure of old school routines.
   It’s not about being dictated by the clock, but creating a natural rhythm to the day. Visual routines offer structure with enough flexibility to keep things calm and fluid.
   
   
9. I love how they make the end of activities easier. (Screen time in particular)
   You know when you’re enjoying something, and then it’s suddenly… over? Visual routines help kids—and let’s be honest, adults too—ease out of activities smoothly.
   
   
10. And finally, I love that they make life just a little bit easier.
    At the end of the day, visual routines simplify things, reduce stress, and give everyone (educators included) a little breathing room. Life just feels smoother.



So, there you have it—the 10 things I love about visual routines.

They’re not just cute pictures; they’re game changers in creating a smoother, more respectful learning environment. And if that doesn’t make you want to fall in love with them, I don’t know what will.



By Jem Findlay - @create4me