There is no such thing as relaxing parenting. When you have kids, you can wave goodbye to your go with the flow attitude. Staying organised can save your life, one day – or, at the very least, your sanity, because there is a lot to think about as a mum! As a parent, you are constantly torn between looking out for your family as a whole, ensuring that each one of your kid feels loved and cherished, and maintaining your household. As the cloning machine has not yet made any progress towards future commercialisation, you can only rely on yourself – and only one of you. However, there are some easy tips to help you to meet your goals. Looking out for your family is your priority, and we’ve already published a few ideas about it in a previous article. But managing your household and creating a meaningful connection with your children is still on the to-do list.
A reminder of part 1
In the first part of our organised parenthood for busy mums and dads, we explored the advantages of lists. Indeed, as silly as it might sound, making a list of everything you need to do can make a significant difference to your day. Firstly, it frees up your mind, but more importantly, it helps you to break down big tasks into small and achievable jobs, which you can order by priority. And as you stay focused, you can gradually tackle your to-dos and identify purposeless clutter. Decluttering when you’ve got kids is vital; you can ensure they don’t keep clothes that don’t fit and toys that don’t work anymore. More to the point, you can also make some cash for your family by selling your unwanted or not-used-anymore items!
Planning for the future starts with your kids
Days come and go rapidly. One day your baby is learning to stand up, and it feels like the next day they’re going to school for the first time. As a parent, you’ll begin to believe that there is a time vortex that speeds everything up in your home! Why do children grow so fast? But it’s because they never stop growing that you have to plan for their future. You can’t afford to ignore the importance of taking life insurance cover when you’ve got a family who counts on you. Nobody wants to think of the worst-case scenario; however, you have to be prepared for all eventualities.
Another financial worry you should consider early when you have children is the cost of education. It’s never too early to start a savings account for your child. You can use the account as a funding option for their university fees, for instance.
You’re a role model, so teach them how to be more like you
Kids don’t always do what you say. But they always copy what you do. As a parent, you act as a role model, and the choices you make in the household can dramatically transform your interior. Indeed, the most common complaint made by parents is that cleaning after their children can be a pain. Here’s a thought for you: why don’t you let them participate in the household chores? Training your children to be skilled around the house takes a lot of time, at first. Vacuuming their room, putting groceries away, or taking the bin out is an example of how your kids can help you to keep the household organised and tidy. But it all starts with you. You have to show them how to help and to stay disciplined.
Batches are a lifesaver
You’re busy. Spending your evening cooking for the whole family is not on top of your list, especially as a working mum or dad. But you also know that processed meals are not the healthiest option, even though they are the quickest alternative to takeaway food. You could try option number 3, which is to prepare your dinners in batches over the weekend. You can then safely freeze your Bolognese sauce or your homemade steak and chips, ready to be reheated during the week. Not only does this tip save you a lot of money in the long-term, but it also frees up your evenings so that you can spend them with your family.
Create the essential us time
Lastly, you need to make time for your children. You could create a theme night, such as pizza nights,, and sit comfortably at the table to chat about your days while enjoying an easy meal. With younger kids, make a point to play their games to connect.
Nobody is going to deny that parenthood is a busy time. But you can make the most of your time, resources, and money to be the best parent you can for your kids. There is, however, no quick win. Parenting is hard work even with those tips!
*collaborative post
