How to Create a Morning Routine That Works

A step-by-step guide to helping you own your morning, get ready on time, and start your day feeling calm and prepared.

1. List your must-dos. Write down every task you need to do before leaving, like brushing your teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast, and packing your bag. Don't worry about the order yet, just get them all on paper.
2. Put them in order. Think about what makes sense to do first. For example, getting dressed before eating breakfast can help prevent accidents on your clean clothes. Ask a grown-up to look at your list to see if you missed any important steps.
3. Estimate your time. Next to each task, write down how many minutes you think it takes. Use a real timer to test yourself for a few days to see if your guesses are close to the real time.
4. Make your visual chart. Write your tasks on your poster board in order. Add a space next to each one to put a sticker or checkmark once you finish it. Hang it somewhere you see every day, like your bedroom door or the kitchen wall.