Ah the dreaded morning routine for school… It can be such a struggle. If you have a child with special needs the challenges can be magnified. Over the years I have created many different resources to support my students in gaining independence round this topic (you can read about them here). But in many cases you just need one simple tool.

Use a Tool

I suggest all of the parents of students on my caseload use a morning routine for school checklist with their kids.

Personalize your checklist depending on your child’s ability. Possibilities include a visual list including photos of the things around your home, generic visuals (such as clipart) or just text. Make sure the list fits on one page so you can laminate it. Then, your child can then use a dry erase marker to check off each box as it is completed. Wipe it clean and reuse it everyday.

FREE Morning Routine for School Checklist

You can download this morning routine for school checklist for free. It has five separate lists that each address slightly different needs. Use them as is, or use as an example to make your own!

Long story short, the checklist is underrated. If you celebrate each check mark earned, your kiddos will too. And, as one mom to another, faking your excitement is totally ok, as long as you are convincing.