How to Organize a Toddler's Day

Toddlers thrive on routine, so if you're working to create a more organized schedule for your little one, you're taking a step in the right direction. The most important things to offer your toddler are plenty of active play, healthy food and plenty of sleep. Whatever you do beyond that is up to you, but keep in mind that overscheduling your toddler could lead to more stress and misbehavior.

Instructions

    • 1

      Make sleep a priority. Toddlers need a total of 14 to 15 hours of sleep a day, recommends the National Sleep Foundation. Most toddlers are still taking naps, often in the afternoon, which means you'll need to be home or in a comfortable, quiet location during that time. Depending on your own schedule, you might plan to have your toddler sleep approximately 12 hours at night, with a two-hour nap midday. You might also plan two shorter naps if a longer nap is not possible -- but, in most cases, your toddler will let you know when she's in need of sleep by rubbing her eyes or acting crabby.

    • 2

      Provide opportunities for active play, including scheduled activities and free play. Toddlers need at least 30 minutes of structured active play every day, as well as at least another hour of unstructured play, recommends the National Association for Sport and Physical Education. Structured activities might include classes or just time spent with you doing activities like playing soccer or throwing a ball.

    • 3

      Resist the urge to plop your toddler in front of the TV when you need to get things done. Children under age 2 should not watch TV or use other media devices, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. Kids who are more than 2 years old should get a maximum of one to two hours of "screen time" every day.

    • 4

      Offer healthy snacks often throughout the day. Toddlers use a lot of energy and will be hungry often. Make it easy on yourself by precutting carrot sticks, cucumbers or cheese so a snack will be readily available when your toddler needs a bite.

    • 5

      Avoid overplanning the day. A typical day might look like this: wake up, eat a healthy breakfast, play outside, or do inside activities like reading together or playing with blocks, and then have a mid-morning snack. After that, allow your toddler some free play time before lunch. Following lunch, put your toddler down for a nap. Schedule a class or fun activity in the afternoon, and then come home for a snack and more time for free play. Soon after dinner, your toddler should be ready for bed.

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