This Fun Mom

Ah, parenting our four young boys – it was and still is like running a small circus sometimes! I wish I could turn back time and give my younger self some advice.

“Hey, younger me! Buckle up, because you’re in for a wild ride. First off, invest in a lifetime supply of coffee. You’ll need it more than you know. And sleep? You’re going to get less, that’s just the reality of parenting a large crew. Embrace the dark circles under your eyes like badges of honor.

Oh, and self-care? Yeah, that’s going to be a luxury you’ll fantasize about while hiding in the bathroom for five minutes of peace. But hey, you’ll squeeze in a hot shower every now and then… that sort of counts as a spa day.

As for decision-making, well, just throw a dart at a board and hope for the best. Parenting isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about making it up as you go along and praying you don’t mess it up too bad.

There is no parenting manual. It doesn’t exist. Trust your gut, follow your instincts, and remember that trial and error is just another way of saying ‘winging it.’

But amidst the chaos, find joy in the little moments. Like when all four boys are miraculously asleep at the same time, or when they are all getting along and it looks like four best friends enjoying life together.

So, younger me, enjoy every moment, trust your gut, and hold on tight. It’s going to be a bumpy, hilarious, and utterly exhausting ride. But hey, you won’t want to trade it for anything in the world!”

The earlier you start routines the easier it will be. Here are the most important 15 things I wish I knew ahead of time or started some of these things earlier when parenting our four boys 💙💙💙💙.

1. Morning Routine Chart: Create a visual morning routine chart with pictures for tasks like brushing teeth, getting dressed, and eating breakfast. This can help kids take responsibility for their morning routine without constant reminders.
2. Weekly Meal Planning: Plan meals for the week ahead, involving your kids in the process. This not only saves time but also ensures balanced nutrition. Consider batch cooking and freezing meals for busy days.
3. Homework Station: Set up a dedicated homework station with all the necessary supplies like pencils, erasers, rulers, and a comfortable workspace. This makes it easier for kids to focus on their homework without searching for materials.
4. Visual Timers: Use visual timers or countdown apps to help kids manage their time effectively, especially for tasks like homework or screen time. It makes time limits more tangible and reduces arguments.
5. Homework Breaks: Implement the “10-minute rule” for homework breaks. For every 10 minutes of focused work, allow a 1-2 minute break for younger kids and slightly longer breaks for older ones. It helps maintain focus and prevents burnout.
6. Morning Prep the Night Before: Encourage your child to pack their backpack and lay out clothes the night before to streamline the morning rush.
7. Snack Organization: Have a designated snack area in the pantry or fridge with healthy options that kids can grab themselves. Use small bins or containers to make it easy for them to choose snacks independently.
8. Chore Chart: Create a chore chart with age-appropriate tasks to teach responsibility and teamwork. Make it fun by offering rewards or incentives for completing chores.
9. Establish Routines: Consistent routines help kids feel secure and know what to expect. Establish routines for mornings, after school, and bedtime to promote a sense of stability.
10. Stay Connected with Teachers: Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers to stay informed about their progress and any challenges they may be facing academically or socially.
11. Emergency Kit: Keep a small emergency kit in your car or backpack with essentials like bandaids, tissues, hand sanitizer, and snacks for unexpected situations.
12. Encourage Independence: Teach kids age-appropriate tasks like tying shoes, packing their lunch, and managing their belongings to foster independence and build confidence.
13. Utilize Technology: Use educational apps and online resources to supplement learning and keep kids engaged in subjects they’re interested in.
14. Family Calendar: Use a shared family calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules, including school events, extracurricular activities, and appointments.
15. Quality Time: Make time for one-on-one quality time with each child to bond and strengthen your relationship outside of the daily routine.

Good luck mom and dad and don’t be too hard on yourself!

I hope some of these tips help you as you navigate parenting life. These mom hacks/parenting hacks can help streamline your daily routines and make life a little easier for both you and your elementary school-age kids. Incorporating some of these tips and routines can help as your kids grow into teens. Seriously and I’m also serious when I say that this time with your kids will FLY by! Time is a thief so make the most of yours!

❤️ Christa Siladie