As a parent, you have the responsibly of working, getting your children ready for the day, and sending them off to school or nursery.

There is a good chance that you know the importance of time management quite well. It’s obviously important on any morning when you are, for whatever reasons, running 20 minutes late.

But, do your children know? If your kids learn how to manage their time, and understand why they need to do it, it will take the stress off everyone. If they don’t know about it, you should teach them.

One of the immediate benefits is found in receiving help at home in completing small household tasks and relieving yourself to do other chores, or get some rest.

Since there are a number of benefits to educating your child on the importance of time management, you need to start instilling this in them as early as possible.

As a reminder, toddlers and preschoolers, although young, can still benefit from a few basic lessons. Most children will gladly comply if  they know what is expected of them. And if they object initially, instead of using treats to bribe them, explain why they need to help, and what the benefits will be for all of you.

Additionally, it is important to know that time management is demonstrated as a lifelong lesson. It is one that your children will need to learn anyway, so why not get them started now? A head start on important life lessons can never hurt a child. In fact, poor time management, especially at the secondary school and college level can hinder your children’s ability to get a good job and make a good living.

Lead by example

One of the best ways to teach your children how to properly manage their time is to set a good example. For instance, before leaving for an important event, show your children the clock and tell them what time you need to be ready to leave by.

When you are ready to leave, be sure to make note of the time. If you and your family are able to beat that time, be sure to congratulate and praise your children, especially those that are young in age.

Setting goals involving a specific time (i.e. “We all must be ready to leave by 3:10 pm”) is a good way to teach your children about time management.

Make time management fun for kids

A fun approach for younger children is to rely on a kitchen timer. You can make a time management game out of brushing teeth, cleaning up a room, and so forth.

This is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. In addition to leading by example, it is also important to talk to your children about time management. Around the ages of eight to 10, children are better able to understand the consequences of running late.

These consequences may involve missing a fun activity.

Another reason why you should talk to your children about time management and share important tips with them is because there are a number of benefits to doing so. These benefits are ones that will help your child for years to come.

At the primary school, high school, and college levels, having a good sense of time can help your children get better grades.

When in secondary school and in college, your children will have more freedom, in terms of studying and completing homework assignments.

Those who have a poor sense of time and those who do not know how to manage their time are likely to get poor grades on tests and homework assignments.