Our New Year Toddler Routine + The Preschool Prep Skills We’re Focusing On

The last three years have been all about survival. With two babies under the age of two, keeping a schedule simply wasn’t a priority. Our days flowed in whatever way kept everyone fed, safe, and me somewhat sane. And honestly, that was enough for that season.

Now that my toddlers are getting a bit older, it feels like the right time to begin introducing more of a routine. Not in a rigid or overwhelming way, but in a way that gently supports them as they learn basic life skills and begin preparing for preschool. It also helps to have a general flow to the day so that there’s structure, and less stress for all of us. 

The routine below is designed for toddlers ages 1–3 and for moms who want gentle structure without rigid schedules or pressure-filled expectations.

Our New Daily Routine 

Morning: Slow Starts & Simple Structure

We usually start our mornings slowly. After breakfast, we spend a little time reading together, singing songs, and playing.

Instead of formal lessons, we focus on:

• Puzzles and stacking toys

• Coloring, stickers, and crafts

• Counting objects during play

• Singing songs and nursery rhymes

This part of the day is less about academics and more about:

• Building language through conversation

• Encouraging independence (putting toys away)

• Creating a predictable rhythm

Right now, we’re not doing strict timelines, or structured academics. There will be time for that later. For now, play, conversation, and connection are enough.

After our morning activity, we get dressed and head outside for an outdoor activity. This usually involves going to the park and/or running errands. After we have lunch, we transition into rest time. Some days that means a nap, other days it’s quiet play or books. Afternoons are slower and more flexible. Once the kids wake from their nap, they will play independently while I reset the house.

Evening: Connection Over Perfection

Later in the evening, we do a fun activity as a family once dad gets home from work. 

We then have dinner, followed by bath time, teeth brushing and story. During this time we also focus on helping with simple chores and practicing transitions (moving from one activity to another)

Our bedtime routine give us space to connect, and talk about our day. This is also when we practice patience, waiting, and winding down from the day.

How I’m Gently Preparing for Preschool at Home

I’ve learned that preschool readiness is less about what kids know and more about communication

Here’s what we’re focusing on:

1. Emotional Readiness

• Naming emotions

• Practicing sharing and taking turns

• Offering comfort during transitions

I'm learning that helping my kids feel confident and understood will prepare them socially and emotionally.

2. Independence in Small Ways

Preschool often asks children to do simple things on their own, so we practice:

• Washing hands

• Putting on shoes

• Cleaning up toys

3. Listening & Following Simple Directions

Instead of drilling lessons, I focus on:

• Giving one- or two-step directions

• Practicing sitting for short periods

• Encouraging gentle structure

This naturally fits into our daily routine.

4. Faith in the Everyday Moments

I also believe spiritual foundation matters.

We pray together, talk about God in simple ways, and model kindness and patience. I trust that God is preparing my child for each season in His timing, not mine.

Letting Go of the Pressure to “Do It All”

One of the biggest lessons I’m learning is that I don’t need to rush this season.

Preschool preparation doesn’t require perfection. It requires presence. The more my kids grow, I'm learning that they don’t need a perfect routine, but a loving, consistent environment where they feel safe to grow.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a mom wondering whether you’re doing enough to prepare your child for preschool, I hope this encourages you.

Your daily routine, no matter how simple, is already shaping your child in beautiful ways.

Trust yourself. Trust the season. And trust that God is at work in the small moments.

How are you preparing your child for preschool at home? I’d love to hear what your daily routine looks like.