How to Use Routines in the ISS Room

The brain is a pattern-seeking device. We simply feel safer when we can detect a clear pattern. This makes it particularly important to have clearly stated visual routines in your ISS room, where children go when they are already upset.  The more consistent and clearly you represent the routines and expectations for your ISS room, the more safely, smoothly and cooperatively it will run.

What is your process for children entering the ISS room? What do children in the ISS room do once they are calm? Simply state these and any other routines in pictures and words, and post them throughout the room where those routines occur. Children who have difficulty following a specific routine might need a smaller, personalized routine taped to their desks as a helpful reminder. Create smaller, single-page versions of key routines and keep them available for individual use should the need arise.

The Creating the School Family book devotes an entire chapter to creating routines, posting them visually and supporting them with related activities.