We all need more time in the mornings. If you have kids, this is especially true. There are a few ways to make your mornings less stressful.
Here are a few tips:
Plan ahead by eight to 10 hours – Get your stuff together the night before. School clothes should be laid out at the foot of each child’s bed; yours can remain in the closet with your top and bottom on the same hanger for quick access. Dedicate a spot for your purse, keys, and other essentials, such as work badge and cellphone. Make sure they are in place ready for pick up.
Put the kids to bed on time each night – Kids need a predictable routine and that includes things they dislike. Going to bed tops this list. However, once you’ve established a bedtime ritual, stick to it. Kids who get off track tend to stay off track. While you’re at it, create a chore chart so kids know what has to be done each day.
Rise n’ shine for me time – Even if you aren’t a morning person, set your alarm for 15 minutes before you expect the kids to hop out of bed. Drink some coffee, do yoga, watch the news (spoiler alert: traffic is terrible, the Left and Right still disagree on everything, and the weatherman is wrong!). The point is to start your day peacefully, so maybe skip the news.
Break for breakfast – As easy as it is to head out the door with plans of fast food in your head, don’t. Not only are drive-thrus a saturated fat trap, but it’s cheaper, easier, and healthier to hit the grocery store for a few convenience foods, according to the American Heart Association. A cup of oatmeal, a banana, and a handful of walnuts makes great morning fuel and takes only minutes to prepare.
Make some music – You don’t actually have to grab your guitar or pluck away at the piano. But find an inspiring soundtrack to start your day. High-energy dance tunes can get you in-tune with your own energy levels. Have kids pick a few of their favorites and let them listen while they make their beds, brush their teeth, and get their shoes on.
Make TV and tablets a no-go – Bert and Ernie are great for Saturday mornings, but they won’t do anything aside from slow your toddler down when you’re running late for work. Likewise, your teenager doesn’t really need to check her Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook before going to school. Avoid tech-time in the morning and reserve their (and your own) gadget time for evenings when homework and dinner are done.
Play music (Revolutionary morning routine hack for kids)
Now that you have some tips for de-stressing your morning, you’re ready to face the day. Enjoy that coffee or tea, get your kids dressed and fed, and take on the world! You got this!
How do you de-stress your morning routine?
Daniel is a single dad raising two children. At DadSolo.com, he aims to provide other single dads with information and resources to help them better equip themselves on the journey that is parenthood.
