If you’re a stay-at-home mom, you’ve probably asked yourself at some point: “Should my toddler be on a strict schedule?”
When I first became a mom, I thought routines meant having everything perfectly timed. But over time, I realized something important– structure works best when it leaves room for flexibility. Our days aren’t rigid, but they do have a rhythm. We aim for certain anchors throughout the day—meals, naps, outside time, and family time. That balance has been a lifesaver for me.
I used to be a self-proclaimed Type A person. But ever since I became a mother… I think I’m now more of a Type A-? Or maybe even a Type B+?
I still like being on time for scheduled appointments. However, running a little behind on our planned morning park time won’t kill me either. And if I need to change that AM park time to an evening trip instead, that works too! I honor my son’s nap schedule as best as I can, but if sometimes he sleeps 30 minutes earlier or an hour later—it doesn’t bother me.
I learned pretty quickly that if I wanted to survive AND thrive as a stay-at-home mom, I needed to be flexible and fluid. I had to learn the go-with-the-flow attitude pretty quickly. Babies and toddlers are somewhat unpredictable—which makes sense because they’re humans! Just like how my days don’t look identical, I don’t expect my son to have identical days either.
What we try to do instead is hit the highlights of the day as often as we can. If you’re wondering what our day looks like—or you’re looking for ideas—keep on reading.
Rise and Shine
Wake-up time usually ranges between 7:00–8:00 AM. I’m not rigid when it comes to wake-up time.
Morning Routine
We start the day with a diaper change, followed by morning milk from a sippy cup and one episode of Sesame Street!
Morning Chores with Mom
I recently got my son a toddler tower, and he absolutely loves it. During this time, he “assists” me with washing dirty sippy cups and small dishes. Sometimes I purposely leave a few dishes from the night before, so we have something to wash together during this time!
Toothbrush Time
Our son is getting used to brushing his teeth. Every morning, I have him stand in his toddler tower right next to me while I brush my teeth. I hand him his toothbrush and try to model how to brush.
This is also when I do my morning skincare routine: cleanser, essence, niacinamide, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Keeping it simple! I make sure that I do this to make me feel put together.
Morning Walk
Ever since spring came along, I try to make sure we get some outside time. It doesn’t have to be long—even a 10-minute walk makes a big difference.
Breakfast
Our son actually prefers a delayed breakfast. I’ve learned that he eats better if I wait a bit after his morning milk before offering food.
First Nap
Between 10:30 AM and 11:45 AM is usually his first nap. This nap can last anywhere from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Post-Nap Play
Whenever he wakes up from his nap, we usually head upstairs to the loft for a quick play session. Sometimes it’s just 15 minutes, and other times it turns into a full hour.
Lunch Time
Lunch is usually the biggest meal of the day for our little guy!
Afternoon Play
After lunch comes more play time! Sometimes that means exploring around the house, and other times we head back up to the loft where all the toys are. If possible, I’ll try to squeeze in another walk during this part of the day.
Optional Second Nap
Between 3:00–5:00 PM is when a second nap might happen. He doesn’t always take this nap, but the option is there for him. It usually last for only 30-40 minutes. We try to follow his cues rather than forcing a strict schedule. If he seems tired, we let him nap and adjust bedtime accordingly. And if looks like he can stay up until bedtime, then we’ll do that! We also make sure no naps after 6pm.
Dinner Time
During dinner prep, I use the toddler tower again so he can help with cooking. I’ve noticed that being involved in the cooking process actually makes him more excited to eat.
Dinner is usually our longest meal of the day because this is when we unwind as a family. We talk about the day and just enjoy spending time together.
Bath Time
Our son bathes about 2–3 times a week. Of course, if he’s sweaty or dirty, that automatically means bath time. For him, bath time is basically play time. He can happily spend 30 minutes to an hour splashing around and playing with his bath toys.
PM Milk
Next comes evening milk from a sippy cup. This is also optional. There are nights where my son has no interest in it, and that’s okay!
Toothbrush Time (Round Two)
For nighttime brushing, we lay our son across our laps—my husband near his head and me near his feet. My husband does the brushing while I sing and gently hold his hands, so he doesn’t grab the toothbrush.
Our son’s dentist recommended this position so he can get used to the way dental cleanings feel. It was tough at first, but he’s gotten much more used to it.
Goodnight Song
Ever since he was little, we dance to “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” before taking him to bed. This is a Toy Story household!
Bedtime
Bedtime usually happens somewhere between 7:00–8:30 PM.
Every family’s routine will look a little different, and that’s one of the beautiful things about this season of life.
What works for one household may not work for another—and that’s okay. For us, having a flexible routine with a few consistent anchors throughout the day has made life feel calmer and more manageable.
If you’re a parent figuring out your own rhythm, I hope this gives you a few ideas—or at least the encouragement that your routine doesn’t have to be perfect to be good.
becoming at Home 
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