Mariposa Kisses (aka Dianne's Blog)

Life with young kids is stressful, especially when (like most people), you're sprinting out the door at 100 MPH. So, here are five helpful tips to alleviate some of the morning chaos.

First, lay out the kids' clothes the night before. If you have drama-queen daughters, try setting out two outfits so the girls have a choice. While Weather.com is not always accurate, it does help to gauge how they'll need to dress. Go ahead and lay out your own outfit as well. Even though I think I'm a decisive person, this becomes a contradiction of terms, as I stand aimlessly in front of my own plethora of shirts and pants.

Second, set out the kids shoes by the front door. This might seem unnecessary, but it really helps in my family. Instead of hunting for that one sparkly pink tennis shoe at the last minute, it's right there sitting peacefully by its partner. This of course doesn't mean your children won't fuss for a different pair, but it's a good starting point, especially as they get used to this routine.

Third, provide breakfast options that are quick but healthful. Lately, my kids have been addicted to mozzarella cheese sticks. While this might not seem like a traditional morning item, the kids are loving them for breakfast along with a healthy fruit-bar or a yogurt. They eat them quickly; plus, they get a good source of protein as well.

For those of you with starving morning eaters (mine are like me and don't get hungry until about 10AM), prepare a double or triple batch of pancakes on Sunday; then you can toast them throughout the week. Or, as Maura, from the Momarama video panel, suggested, prepare your egg mixture the night before. Then, just toss it into the pan and you're ready to go within minutes.

Fourth, try to connect with each of your kids before walking out the door. Since we're usually racing, it's hard to do. But, try to take a moment to remind your kids that you love them. Give them a few solid hugs and make clear eye contact, which only takes about thirty seconds. The pay-off will be huge and you might even notice improved behavior throughout the day because of this personal connection from the get-go.

During our drive to school, we like to say a short prayer together thanking God for the kids' teachers and asking for a blessing on each of my kids and their friends as well. You could even take a minute to focus on one thing each person is thankful for. These kinds of simple activities help to calm everyone's busy heart before charging into the next objective of the day.

Fifth, remember to take care of yourself. As parents, we tend to put our kids first, while forgetting to care for ourselves. So, make sure to grab a healthy munchie for yourself as well (other than your coffee), like a Fiber One granola bar (it's got 9 grams of fiber and chocolate too). Instead of feeling starved around 11 AM, I greet lunchtime in a more satisfied state and also end up eating less throughout the day.

Remember to center your mind and spirit as well. Try some calming activities for yourself before the day kicks into fifth gear. You can do some relaxing stretches before your morning shower or even some sit-ups and push-ups to get your endorphins flowing. You can also start the day with some meditative texts or some positive thinking exercises. If you as the parent feel better about the day ahead, your kids will as well. Say things to your kids like, "Isn't this a beautiful day, kids?" You can point out the flowers, birds, and blessings around you.

I hope these tips help to ease some of the morning chaos for you and your family. Share some of your suggestions here. We'd love to hear from you.

Labels: kids, moms, mornings, routine