The best advice comes from someone who has walked in your shoes before. Even as a “veteran” mom, I love hearing how other parents do things and handle certain situations with their kids. Parent to Parent is where we ask other parents how they handle a situation and share the answers with you. It takes a village, so leave your thoughts and opinions in the comments. Today’s topic: Stree-Free Mornings
Parents Tips and Tricks for Stress-Free Mornings
Music
We use a Spotify playlist, but you can use any service or make your own. I put it on when the kids come down to the table, and it’s the exact amount of time they have to get ready. They know when it gets to a specific song that they should be putting their shoes on or hurrying up, and it’s more fun than me saying, “Chop! Chop! Get moving!” ~Melissa, four kids 3 in school – 5th grade, 3rd grade, and pre-K
Have a Plan
Have favorite breakfasts on hand (no one functions when they’re hangry!), give yourself a 15-minute buffer (if you really need to leave at 7:45 a.m., tell the kids you’re leaving at 7:30 a.m.), pack backpacks the night before (or at least make a pile or post-it note) – and layout clothes (underwear, socks, etc.) and make sure both shoes are by the door and the puppy didn’t drag one to some other secret room in the house! ~Cheryl, two kids 8th grade and 3rd grade
I try always to lay out clothes, get shoes and outdoor gear together, make lunch, and pack up the backpack at night. This eliminates the frantic search for the library book or missing boot while you’re already rushing out the door! Any items I can knock off the a.m. to-do list are a priority before bed. ~Holly 2 kids, 1st grade and pre-k
Lunch is packed, clothes are laid out (including socks and underwear), shoes and packed backpack are by the door, breakfast is made and on a plate in the fridge ready to be warmed. What can I say? Mama likes to sleep in! ~Jessica 3 kids, 2 in school; 1st grade and pre-K
Routine as much as possible! They need to eat, or it’s crab city!! Have the coffee ready to go for me! ~Stephanie, two kids in pre-K
Get up before the kids. This is my most crucial one, it may only be five minutes, but it means I can pour my coffee and take a deep breath before the crazy starts! ~ Melissa
Here’s to a bright shiny new school year! Share your stress-free morning tips in the comments!
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