Practical Early Years Advice: Learning, Tantrums and Routines

Practical Early Years Advice: Learning, Tantrums and Routines

Raising a young child brings plenty of joyful moments, along with a few challenges. Although every child is different, simple approaches at home can encourage learning, make strong emotions easier to manage and bring more calm to everyday routines.

Encourage Learning Through Everyday Activities

Young children learn naturally through play, conversation and everyday experiences. You do not need to recreate a classroom at home—small moments can offer valuable learning opportunities.

You could:

• Create an accessible area for books, puzzles and creative activities.
• Count fruit while unpacking the shopping.
• Name colours while sorting clothes.
• Sing rhymes during bath time or while getting dressed.
• Ask questions such as, “What do you think will happen next?”
• Explore hands-on activities such as playdough, painting and water play.

Reading together is also a lovely way to introduce new words and ideas. Let your child choose the book, turn the pages and talk about what they notice in the pictures.

Respond Calmly to Toddler Tantrums

Tantrums are a common part of toddlerhood. Young children can experience strong emotions before they have developed the words and skills needed to express them clearly.

When a tantrum happens:

• Stay calm and use a gentle, steady voice.
• Consider whether your child may be hungry, tired or overwhelmed.
• Acknowledge the feeling while keeping the boundary clear.
• Use simple language rather than lengthy explanations.
• Offer comfort and talk about what happened once they are calm.

For example, you might say:

“I can see that you’re upset because you wanted that toy. It’s okay to feel upset, but we cannot buy it today.”

If tantrums regularly happen at similar times, make a note of what occurred beforehand. This may help you identify triggers and prepare for them.

Create Simple and Reassuring Routines

Predictable routines help children understand what is happening and what comes next. They can also make transitions easier and give children opportunities to become more independent.

Helpful routines may include:

• Following a familiar order for getting ready each morning.
• Eating together without screens where possible.
• Giving warnings before changing activities.
• Creating a calm bedtime routine with a bath, story and cuddle.
• Balancing active play, quiet activities and child-led play.

Visual cards, photographs or a simple timer can also help young children follow their routine.

Consistency is useful, but routines do not need to be perfect. When plans change, explain what is happening simply and return to the familiar routine when possible.

Final Thoughts

Small, repeated interactions can make everyday family life feel calmer and more enjoyable. By encouraging playful learning, responding patiently to strong emotions and maintaining flexible routines, parents can help young children feel secure, confident and ready to explore.

At New Beginnings Day Nurseries, we work closely with families to help every child feel safe, valued and supported. Explore our nursery locations or book a show-round to learn more.