How to Explain the Value of Routine During Uncertain Times 

Parenting Perspective 

Routines Are Anchors in Times of Change 

When a child questions the point of routines, especially during seasons of change, it often reflects their search for stability and meaning. Your child is expressing frustration at unpredictability and wondering whether routines matter if life feels unsettled. This is an important opportunity to explain that routines are not about stopping change but about giving the heart and mind anchors to hold onto within change. 

Acknowledge Their Feelings First 

A parent can start by acknowledging the child’s feelings: ‘I understand it feels like things are always changing, and that can be tiring.’ Validation helps the child feel heard before guidance is offered. Then, gently explain that routines provide a sense of safety. For example, saying prayers at certain times, eating meals together, or keeping bedtime steady gives the body and heart signals of normality, even when other things are uncertain. 

Involve Them to Foster Ownership 

You can also involve your child in shaping parts of the routine so they feel ownership. Perhaps they can choose which story is read before bed, or which dua is recited together. When children feel included, routines become less like rules and more like shared family habits that ground everyone. 

Link Structure to Comfort, Not Control 

It is also useful to highlight that routines are not meant to trap them, but to give their mind and heart rest. Without structure, uncertainty feels heavier. With it, they know there are small things they can count on. By linking structure to comfort rather than control, you help your child accept it as a tool of support, not a restriction. 

Spiritual Insight 

Routines Give Steadiness and Connection 

Islam shows us the value of structure in daily life. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verses 2–3: 

‘This is a Book (Quran) in which there cannot be any doubt; guidance for those who seek piety. Those people who rationally believe in (the existential realities that are) beyond (the capacity of) human perception and are consistent with their prayers; and spend (on themselves and others) with the wealth that We (Allah Almighty) have sustained them with.’  

The mention of establishing prayer highlights the importance of regularity. Prayer times do not change with our personal circumstances; they remain fixed, providing rhythm and balance in the believer’s day. This teaches children that routines in life, like Salah, give steadiness and connection with Allah even when the world feels uncertain. 

Consistent Habits Bring Value and Blessing 

It is recorded in Sahih Al Bukhari, Hadith 6464, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved of deeds to Allah are those that are most consistent, even if small.’  

This Hadith reinforces the idea that steady habits, even if simple, bring value and blessing. 

By framing routines as acts that protect the heart, bring peace, and mirror the discipline Allah loves, you can help your child see that structure is not about denying change but about giving them anchors through it. This balance between honesty, reassurance, and faith will gently answer their question and strengthen their trust.