As busy moms, we're always looking to spend quality time with our kids. But there are so many things to get done in a day! I know I try to make time with my kids fun and productive and one way I manage that is by making even the simplest routines something special.
1. Laying out their clothes for the next day
It's unbelievable at what a young age kids want to start picking out their own clothes. In order to keep this from getting hectic in the morning, I like to make it part of our bedtime routine. But instead of just snatching the first clean thing I can find in their closets, I make it into a little game. We talk about whether it's supposed to be rainy or sunny the next day, then play a little game about what the right clothes are to wear for the weather. Or we choose a holiday theme (we wear lots of red and green around the holidays). Every Friday, their school asks that they wear the school colors. By taking the time to really think about the next day's outfit, we spend a few quality moments laughing and having fun before bed.
2. Making lunch the night before
Like laying out their clothes, getting lunches ready the night before makes the next morning go a lot more smoothly. Again, I think the key is to work together and to give the kids more and more responsibility as they get older. Kids as young as 1st grade can make a pretty good sandwich and can definitely use a checklist to make sure they've got a main meal, snack and drinks. It's a great way to teach them to be self sufficient.
3. Brushing teeth
Maybe my favorite "routine" time with the kids is brushing their teeth before bed. I love the thought that I am passing on healthy habits that are going to be with them a lifetime. When I use Crest with your kids, not only do I spend time with them, but I show them good oral higiene. I used Crest as a little kid and I like the thought that I'm passing that tradition on. My dentist has always recommended it to me because of its protection against cavities and tartar. The way I make brushing fun is that I play a short little song on my phone while the kids brush. They get to pick the song! It's an easy way to get them to brush long enough. Because they are grooving to a song they love, it's not hard at all. At the end of the song, their beautiful little teeth are sparkling and I can go to bed secure in knowing that I am teaching them to be healthy for life.
While being a mom is a job full of chores, I like to find ways to make them fun.
