Abstract
In recent years, more children are growing up in dual households or two separate households with different caregivers in each residence. This leads to the question of consistency of family routines among the two households, such as meal times, sleep habits, and other patterned activities, as well as contact schedules with each parent. The purpose of this study was to investigate children’s routines in dual households and its relationship to children’s internal and external behaviors in the classroom. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through the use of questionnaires, specifically the Family Routines Inventory (FRI). In addition, subscales of the Child Behavior Check List were utilized, the Caregiver-Teacher Report Form (C-TRF) and the Teacher Report Form (TRF). Findings indicate a significant negative correlation with the routine of children having special things they do or ask for at bedtime in the other parent’s household and their anxious depressed behaviors.