Getting Back in the Rhythm

What do you do when life has turn inside out and upside down and the rhythm you created for the family is no longer apparent?  Well, for my family a visual schedule was exactly what was needed.  I knew what I was looking for, so I headed to Target to pick up the one thing I would need.

I originally wanted a dry erase board.  What I found was even better... a colored dry erase board that is also magnetic.  Here is how I created our schedule: 

First, I sat down with my boys and decide what events needed to be included.  Then, we discussed the order and came up with a plan.  The boys would complete everything that required being upstairs first and then move to the downstairs.

This was not the idea plan because it has them brushing their teeth before breakfast, but at least they get it done.  Before this new routine, there were several days that teeth just didn't fit into the time frame. 

Finally, I wrote out the list of events in order on each board... one board for our morning routine and one for our evening routine.  I added pictures next to each event since my youngest is not yet a true reader.

Even though I still need to hang each board my boys have begun using them.  I have noticed each morning that the oldest kiddo will look at the board and move a magnet down to the next event he is working on.  This has created a morning and evening rhythm that is so much more enjoyable and alot less stressful.

Eventually, I would like to have the boys write out the words and create the drawings for the boards.  I am saving that project for a rainy day. 

How  do you keep the natural rhythm flowing in your home?

What do you do to make mornings and evenings run smoothly?

*note:  Noticed the first photo has the orginal schedule and was not updated.  Sorry 'bout that. <wink>