​Children need stability for them to feel secure. Routines are a good way to provide that. Us parents, also need stability too. To make things easier on us parents, we use preparation and routines to get through the day smoother, especially if you have multiple kids.

Starting early with routines can get you on the right track. But be aware and prepared for the unexpected. Something always happens and throws you off. If you can have a backup plan or prepare for the most inconvenient types of situations that happen with kids, like a messy meal, a need for a change of clothes, etc, things can still run smooth and not get you off track. 

Having routines as well as backup plans can decrease the stress on not only you, but your children too. Sometimes though, stressful situations can not be avoided and children can get upset and easily hysterical with sobbing and screaming. If you start yelling or getting upset, it will only add to the stress. Instead, speak with a calm voice, hugs and kisses help, and if you want to, you can sing to them and distract them from whatever is causing them to be upset. Now this doesn't work for all situations but it's a good start. 

If they are acting up, I usually will try to leave the situation behind and walk away with my child. If they are upset, they aren't going to listen to reasoning. You can talk later. Distraction helps too, and finding something they can do to have fun, before, can help to avoid them acting up. I try to always bring a book, a toy, or a game for them to play while I am running errands or while we are waiting at the doctor's office.  Even letting them use my smartphone or tablet can be fun for them. 

Of course, not everyone has the same situation and not every child can be appeased by these techniques. So my advice is to find what works best for you and your family. Practice, try something new, be resilient, find a routine, but be flexible. And good luck.