10 Tips to an Easier Morning Routine for Busy Parents

Dec 5

Reading Time: 2 mins

young daughter and mom packing backpack for school in the morning

Getting the kids out the door for school can be a chaotic and stressful time for busy parents - whether it's forgotten homework, a lost shoe, or a meltdown over breakfast. And while there's no such thing as a perfect morning, you can help your day run smoother. Here are ten tips to get started:

1. Get organized the night before.
This means laying out clothes, packing lunches, and gathering up any materials needed for the next day. Having everything ready to go ahead of time will help reduce stress in the morning and give you a few extra minutes to enjoy your coffee.

2. Wake up earlier than your kids.
This is key! Waking up before your children gives you some precious extra time to prepare for the day. You can also use this time to check your email, scan the news, or enjoy a few quiet moments before the craziness begins.

3. Make breakfast ahead of time.
It can be as simple as prepping overnight oats the night before or preparing a breakfast smoothie in advance. Just make sure you have everything ready and waiting for your kids when they get up so that you can avoid the morning scramble (no pun intended.) 😂

4. Establish a morning routine and stick to it.
A little bit of structure can go a long way. Whether you follow a set schedule or specific basic tasks each morning, consistency improves daily habits and can decrease the anxiety of rushing out the door.

5. Remember to schedule some fun!
Mornings can be hectic, but they don't have to be all work and no play. Make time for silly singing, dancing around the kitchen, or reading stories together before heading out the door. A few minutes of fun will help start everyone's day off on a positive note.

6. Be prepared for weather changes.
Another way to reduce morning stress is to make sure you're prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store. Check the forecast before bed so you can plan accordingly and have everyone's rain gear or snow gear ready to go by the door.

7. Take deep breaths and stay positive.
Things will inevitably go wrong from time to time, but it's important not to let it ruin your whole day. If someone spills their milk or forgets their homework, take a deep breath and remember that it's not worth getting upset over. Stay positive and know that things will eventually get back on track.

8. Build in some extra time.
Don't forget to build in a little extra time for when things inevitably go wrong! Whether it's traffic or an unexpected delay at the bus stop, always plan for the worst-case scenario to ensure you leave yourself enough time to get through anything that comes up.

9. Reframe the situation.
Sometimes, it can feel like you'll never get out of the house. While mornings can be difficult, there's always something good and positive about them as well. It could be bonding over a bowl of cereal or having extra time for yourself. By refocusing on what's good about mornings, you can avoid getting too caught up in the craziness.

10. Be realistic about what will work for your family.
Mornings are different for everyone, so it's important to find a routine that works for you and your family. If something needs adjustment, don't be afraid to change it - but also don't hesitate to keep what's working well. However, acknowledge that some mornings are simply better than others.

What tips do you have for making the most of your morning routine? Please share them with us on Instagram or Facebook!