Our 1 Year Old Daily Schedule (That Helped Me Get Stuff Done)
Navigating the daily routine of a one-year-old can be both exciting and challenging for parents, especially for stay-at-home moms.
At this age, children are experiencing many transitions, from dietary changes to evolving sleep patterns.
Establishing a predictable routine is essential to provide a sense of security and promote healthy development. Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating a balanced and effective daily routine for your young toddler.
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Morning Routine: A Fresh Start
Wake-Up and Breakfast
Start the day with a consistent wake-up time. For many one-year-olds, a good morning begins around 7:00 AM. After waking up, it’s breakfast time. A variety of healthy foods such as fruits, oatmeal, and eggs can provide the energy needed for the day ahead.
First Nap
Around 9:00-9:30 AM, it’s time for the first nap of the day. This morning nap is crucial for your baby’s development and helps them recharge for the rest of the day. The nap schedule at this stage often includes a morning nap of about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Midday Routine: Activities and Meals
Playtime and Snack Time
Post-nap, it’s a great time for independent playtime or structured activities. This period allows for cognitive and motor skill development.
Around 10:30-11:00 AM, a small snack of healthy foods like yogurt or fruit can keep your toddler satisfied until lunch.
Lunch Time
Around noon, lunch time is an excellent opportunity to introduce solid foods and a variety of healthy foods.
Offering table foods like steamed vegetables, chicken, or pasta helps in the transition from purees to more textured meals. Encouraging the use of a sippy cup or an open cup can also be part of this meal.
![mom morning routine](https://tiredmomsupermom.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/mom-morning-routine--1024x512.jpg)
Afternoon Routine: Rest and Recharge
Afternoon Nap
After some more playtime or a visit to the grocery store, it’s time for the afternoon nap, typically around 1:00-1:30 PM.
This second nap is essential and usually lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. Proper nap times contribute to healthy sleep habits and help prevent overtiredness.
Late Afternoon and Evening Routine: Wind Down
Quiet Time and Snack Time
Post-afternoon nap is a good time for quieter activities. Reading books or engaging in calm, sensory play helps in winding down.
A small snack around 4:00 PM can tide them over until dinner.
Dinner and Free Play
Dinner is usually around 5:30-6:00 PM. Similar to lunch, offering a variety of healthy foods is key.
After dinner, free play or a short family walk can be a great way to spend the early evening.
Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine is crucial for a young toddler. Starting around 7:00 PM, activities such as a warm bath, reading a bedtime story, and cuddling can signal that it’s time to sleep.
A bedtime of 7:30-8:00 PM ensures they get the necessary hours of sleep, usually 11-12 hours, contributing to their overall well-being.
Tips for a Smooth Routine
- Sense of Security: A predictable routine provides a sense of security and helps your toddler know what to expect throughout the day.
- Flexible Structure: While having a routine is important, be flexible to accommodate your toddler’s needs and any unforeseen changes.
- Healthy Snacks: Incorporate healthy snacks and balanced meals to ensure your child gets the necessary nutrients.
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Maintaining regular nap and bedtime schedules is critical in preventing sleep regression and promoting healthy sleep habits.
- Independent Playtime: Encourage independent playtime to foster your child’s ability to entertain themselves and develop autonomy.
Sample Toddler Schedule
To help you get started, here’s a sample toddler schedule based on the routines discussed:
- 7:00 AM: Wake up and breakfast
- 9:00-10:30 AM: Morning nap
- 10:30-11:00 AM: Snack time
- 12:00 PM: Lunch time
- 1:00-2:30/3:00 PM: Afternoon nap
- 4:00 PM: Snack time
- 5:30-6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Bedtime routine
- 7:30-8:00 PM: Bedtime
Creating and maintaining a daily toddler schedule can be a game-changer for both parents and children.
It establishes a rhythm that meets your young toddler’s developmental needs and helps manage the day’s activities smoothly. Happy scheduling!