Getting your kids out the door in the morning can be hurried, chaotic and downright stressful — and your day has only just started! Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about making mornings less stressful with a search online.
If your AM routine is slowing you down, a bit of organization can help you transform your mornings from pandemonium to peacefulness. Here are some time-saving tips to help your family start your weekday mornings off right.
Create a Morning Checklist
As a busy parent, you never know what each day is going to throw at you, but by creating a checklist of what each person in your household must do, you can be sure routine things like tooth-brushing and bag-packing always get done. Delegate small tasks to your children and make sure they know the drill. Posting a list of morning duties in their line of sight will not only ensure that everyone makes the school bus on time, but also give your kids a sense of responsibility.
Get Ahead
Anything that can be done the night before, do it! Bathing, laying out clothes and finding your car keys are small tasks that may not seem time-consuming but together they can really run up the clock. Setting aside a few extra minutes at night to get organized is sure to make for a much smoother morning.
Bulk Up Your Lunch
Trying to scrounge up nutritious lunches the morning of can be a real time-waster, and doling out cafeteria money is hard on your wallet. You could make lunches the night before, but you’ve already fixed and cleaned up dinner and could use a break from the kitchen. Instead, try setting aside an hour a week to make lunches in bulk. Sandwiches and wraps can be made ahead and kept in the freezer for a quick grab-and-go meal and carrots and celery can be cut, portioned and stored in the fridge. In the morning just throw in a yogurt cup and a piece of fruit and you’re out the door!
Designate a ‘Drop Zone’
If permission slips and pencil cases tend to go missing at the most inconvenient moments, try establishing a ‘drop zone’ for all things school and work-related so that they’re always where they need to be. Have an inbox for any papers or forms that need signing, a basket for knapsacks and a spot for your briefcase and keys.
Keep ‘em Focused
Kids will look for anything to get between them and going to school, whether it’s deciding what to wear, what to eat or what to bring for show and tell. If they’re not dragging their feet, they’re distracted by television, their iPad or whatever technology is nearby. Save time by limiting options and distractions. Only offer one or two choices for breakfast or clothing. Keep the television off and digital devices out of reach. Not only will it keep them moving but it makes for some extra family time at the breakfast table.