The clock is ticking, your train is arriving and...you’re still stuck at home because your kid is looking for a very particular top that is conveniently located at the bottom of the laundry bin. Also, where's their homework? There’s no denying it: Mornings are rough, and just when you think you’re ready to leave the house, disaster strikes and temper tantrums become inevitable.
But the day doesn’t have to kick off on a stressful note. Here are a few ways to get your family out of the house earlier in the morning. Yes, it actually is possible.
Be mindful of your nighttime routine
Cut out the commotion at bedtime. Kill the electronics, ask if the homework has been completed and stored in your child’s backpack and focus on a calm, soothing activity such as reading. You and your family won’t wake up feeling frazzled if you had a stress-free evening.
Prepare ahead of time
Ask your youngsters what they want for lunch and have them set aside sandwiches and snacks; all they’ll need to do in the am is grab their lunch boxes. This not only saves time in the morning, but it allows them to take responsibility. You should also look at the weather forecast and plan an appropriate outfit; it’ll be a lifesaver when you can’t find the rain jacket and a storm is brewing at 7am.
Predict their plans
Did your child just get an awesome new coloring book or a fun new action figure? If he or she cannot leave the house without Princess Anna or a Moana sticker book, make sure you know where that toy is because chances are, it’s coming to school and you don’t want to start searching for it when you should be boarding the bus.
Get out of bed earlier
A 7:30am alarm really means 7:45am. Adjust accordingly and allow yourself a little wiggle room in the event your tots require a little extra TLC in the morning.
Get them on your schedule
Can’t live without your morning news? Need to tune in to a particular radio station? Get your kids accustomed to your am habits so that they’ll know when the news ends, it’s time to get their jackets on and their backpacks ready.
A few active steps can make a difference, so give some of these a try. And, of course, may the force be with you.
Need a few tips for calm nighttime activities? Watch one of these kids' movies on Netflix, find a classic and have a movie night with one of the best kids' movies of all time or flip through one of the best kids' books.
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