10 Parenting Hacks Every Busy Mom Needs to Know

 

10 Parenting Hacks Every Busy Mom Needs to Know

Let’s face it—being a mom is a full-time job (with no paid vacation in sight).Being a mom of 6 kids I fully understand the sheer insanity that motherhood can bring to the table.  Between school runs, snack demands, laundry mountains, and trying to have some kind of social life, moms are always on the go.  My life is putting out one fire only to head to the next one.

That’s why having a few time-saving, sanity-saving hacks up your sleeve can make all the difference. Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned pro, these 10 parenting hacks are game-changers for managing the chaos and creating more quality moments with your kids.

Since my page is all about simplifying your life here are some tips to help you. Use one or use all whatever you choose. I hope these tips will help you simplify your life as a busy mom! 

1. Create a Morning Routine Chart

Getting kids out the door in the morning can feel like herding cats. A visual routine chart (with pictures for younger kids) keeps everyone on track and reduces the number of times you say, “Put your shoes on!” Morning routines are important for your own peace of mind. Looking for more tips head over to this post on  How to simplify your Morning Routine for Kids

2. Prep Snacks in Advance

Use snack bins in the pantry and fridge to store grab-and-go options. This cuts down on whining and gives kids a little independence. Keeping a snack area that is organized will make things easier. The important thing it to make sure kids don’t “over do it” on the snacks. Looking for healthier options? Check out 20+ easy Snacks for kids

3. Use a Shoe Organizer for Car Activities

Hang a clear shoe organizer on the back of your car seat to store books, coloring supplies, and snacks. Perfect for road trips or daily errands. That way you can focus on your task and keep the kids from complaining too much. Looking for some tips for your next roadtrip? Check out  10 Road Trip Essentials for Traveling with Kids

4. Designate a “Mom Command Center”

With 6 kids and many papers being thrown at me all at once it’s impossible to keep Keep a wall calendar, dry erase board, and folders for school papers in one spot so nothing gets lost in the daily shuffle. So having a command center is a must for every parent. Looking for inspiration check out these Inspiring Family Command centers

5. Color-Code Everything

Assign each child a color for towels, cups, toothbrushes, etc. It simplifies chores and avoids arguments (and accidental toothbrush swaps).

6. Embrace the “10-Minute Tidy”

This is a game changer! Kids love games and you love things clean so this is a win win for everyone! Set a timer for 10 minutes and get everyone to clean as fast as they can. You’ll be amazed how much gets done—and it’s more fun with music. Looking for more Cleaning hacks check out these Easy Cleaning Hacks for Busy Moms

7. Freeze PB&J Sandwiches for Easy Lunches

Make lunch ahead of time from Frozen homemade uncrustables sandwiches to some easy lunch ideas for school simplify your lunch routine! 

8. Use a Timer for Screen Time Limits

Avoid daily battles by setting a timer (or using built-in parental controls) for screen time. When the timer goes off, the argument’s over. This has been big for our family because I get easily sidetracked. Sometimes I’ll let the kids get more time by reading extra or doing some chores so they’re more apt to helping.

 

9. Keep a “Boredom Jar”

Fill a jar with simple activities like “build a fort,” “draw with chalk,” or “bake cookies.” When your kids say they’re bored, they pull a surprise activity!

10. Meal Plan on Sundays

Spend 20 minutes planning your meals and making your grocery list for the week. Bonus: Post the menu on the fridge so kids stop asking, “What’s for dinner?” I’m a huge fan of the crockpot and use it often. Especially on those nights where we’re running around for sports. Looking for some fun crockpot dinner ideas for busy moms? Make sure and check those out!