Free Printable Daily Routine Chart for Kids

“Did you brush your teeth?” “Is your backpack packed?” “Put your shoes on!” If you find yourself repeating the same instructions every single morning, a visual routine chart might be your new best friend.

Kids thrive on routine, but remembering sequences is hard—especially before 8 AM. A daily routine chart puts the expectations where they can see them, reducing nagging and building independence.

These free printable routine charts help kids take ownership of their mornings, bedtimes, and daily responsibilities. Download, customize, and watch the power struggles decrease.

[Image placeholder: Colorful routine chart on wall with child checking off morning tasks]

Why Routine Charts Work

Visual reminders: Pictures show expectations without repeated verbal instructions

Independence building: Kids check their own chart instead of waiting to be told

Reduced power struggles: The chart says what to do, not the parent

Accomplishment feeling: Checking off tasks provides satisfaction and motivation

Executive function practice: Learning sequences and self-management skills

Consistency: Same routine regardless of which parent or caregiver is present

What’s Included

Morning Routine Chart:

Wake up
Make bed
Get dressed
Eat breakfast
Brush teeth
Brush/comb hair
Pack backpack
Put on shoes/coat

Bedtime Routine Chart:

Bath/shower
Put on pajamas
Brush teeth
Go potty
Pick out clothes for tomorrow
Story time
Prayers/quiet time
Lights out

After School Routine Chart:

Unpack backpack
Homework
Snack
Chores
Free time
Dinner
Get ready for tomorrow

Chore Chart:

Common age-appropriate chores
Checkboxes for tracking completion
Space for rewards/notes

How to Use Routine Charts

Setup

Print and customize (or print blank and write in tasks)
Laminate or use sheet protectors for durability
Attach to visible location (bathroom mirror, bedroom door, kitchen)
Provide checking tool (dry erase marker, stickers, or movable tokens)

Teaching the Routine

Walk through together several times with your child
Practice during calm times (not rushed mornings)
Point to chart instead of giving verbal reminders
Praise independent use of the chart
Be patient—this skill takes time to develop

Checking Methods

Dry erase markers: Wipe clean each day (laminated chart)
Velcro dots: Move from “to do” to “done” side
Clothespins: Clip next to completed tasks
Stickers: Add sticker when complete (visual reward)
Checkboxes: Print fresh daily or weekly

Related: Free Alphabet Worksheets

Charts by Age

Toddlers (2-3 years)

Keep it simple:

3-5 tasks maximum
Large, simple pictures
Focus on main routines (morning, bedtime)
Heavy parent involvement still needed

Best tasks:

Brush teeth (with help)
Get dressed (with help)
Eat breakfast
Wash hands

Preschoolers (4-5 years)

Building independence:

5-7 tasks
Pictures with words underneath
Can complete some tasks independently
Still need check-ins

Add to routine:

Make bed (simple)
Pack backpack (with guidance)
Hair brushing
Putting dishes in sink

Early Elementary (6-8 years)

More detailed:

7-10 tasks
Words can be primary (pictures optional)
Increasing independence
Can handle time-based elements

Add:

Specific morning timing
Homework routines
Basic chores
Self-care independence

Older Kids (9+)

Comprehensive:

Full routines with specifics
Words-based charts
Time management elements
Personal responsibility emphasis

Include:

Packing their own lunch
Managing homework independently
Personal hygiene checklist
Preparing for next day

Customization Tips

Personalize for Your Family

Add or remove tasks based on your actual routine
Use your child’s language (what do you call brushing teeth?)
Include pet care if applicable
Add unique family elements

For Visual Learners

Use photos of your actual child doing tasks
Color-code different parts of day
Use picture icons consistently

For Readers

Use words with pictures
Add time estimates
Include more detail in task descriptions

For Kids Who Need More Structure

Break big tasks into smaller steps
Add specific timing
Use first/then boards for sequencing
Include transition warnings

[Image placeholder: Various routine chart styles showing picture-based and word-based options]

Troubleshooting Common Issues

“My child ignores the chart”

Walk through together daily until it’s habit
Stand near chart and point instead of speaking
Add rewards for using the chart
Make checking off satisfying (stickers, markers)

“They rush through and don’t do tasks well”

Add quality standards (“teeth brushed for 2 minutes”)
Do spot checks
Have child redo rushed tasks
Praise thorough completion

“The chart worked at first but doesn’t anymore”

Refresh the chart (new design, new stickers)
Reassess if routine needs updating
Add new motivation elements
Check if it’s become too easy—add responsibility

“My child has meltdowns about the routine”

Ensure tasks are age-appropriate
Check timing (enough time to complete?)
Reduce number of tasks if overwhelming
Add choice elements where possible

“Different adults use different routines”

Make chart THE authority
All caregivers point to same chart
Consistency is the goal

Beyond Basic Routines

Special Occasion Charts

School Day vs. Weekend: Different expectations, different charts
Summer Routine: Adjusted timing, different activities
Holiday Break: Modified expectations
Sick Day: Simplified routine

Habit Building Charts

Focus on one habit at a time:

Reading daily
Exercise
Music practice
Kindness tasks

Self-Care Reminders

For older kids or kids who need support:

Shower schedule
Hygiene checklist
Medication reminders
Health habits

Making Charts Together

Involve your child in creating their chart:

Discuss what needs to happen (morning, bedtime, etc.)
Let them help decide order
Have them choose pictures or draw illustrations
Let them pick checking method
Involve them in where to hang it

Benefits: Ownership increases compliance. Kids follow rules they helped create.

FAQ

At what age should I start using routine charts?

Even toddlers (around 2) can start with very simple picture charts. Adjust complexity to your child’s developmental level.

Should there be rewards for completing the routine?

The routine itself should be the expectation, not something rewarded extra. However, initial motivation with small rewards can help build the habit. Gradually fade rewards as routine becomes automatic.

What if my child has ADHD or executive function challenges?

Routine charts can be especially helpful! Keep tasks very specific, break into smaller steps, use visual/auditory timers, and expect the learning curve to be longer. Consistency helps.

How long until the chart becomes unnecessary?

Many kids internalize routines after consistent use but may still appreciate the visual reminder. Some people use routine systems their whole lives! There’s no “graduation” requirement.

My partner thinks charts are unnecessary. How do I convince them?

Try for one week. Track how many verbal reminders you give before vs. after implementing the chart. The reduction usually speaks for itself.

Conclusion

Daily routine charts transform chaotic mornings and bedtimes into smooth, predictable sequences. They reduce nagging, build independence, and give kids the satisfaction of checking off their accomplishments.

Print these free charts, customize them for your family, and hang them where your kids can see. Then point to the chart instead of repeating yourself for the hundredth time.

Free Printable Daily Routine Chart for Kids

Free Printable Daily Routine Chart for Kids

Why Routine Charts Work

What’s Included