How Mothers with Toddlers Can Shorten Their Morning Routine by an Hour

Being a part-time working Mother can be hard especially in the morning when so much is going on. Here are a few tips to simplify your morning routine with a toddler.

The night before.

Great amounts of time can be saved by preparing some things the night before, such as:

-Stocking the diaper bag with supplies. Diapers, training pants, extra clothes, wipes and anything else your little one may need. (2 minutes)

-Lay out clothes in advance, not just for your toddler but for yourself as well.(10 minutes)

-Have your keys, purse, phone, laptop, ipod, diaper bag and any other items to be taken that day in one spot, perhaps your kitchen table. (3 minutes)

-If you plan on packing a lunch for yourself and or toddler be sure to do this the night before. (10 minutes)

-Know what your toddler will be eating for breakfast. Sometimes I will make a double portion of breakfast the morning before and freeze the other portion for later. Omelets are one example. (10 minutes)

-Fill a sippy cup with milk so that is waiting in the fridge. (30 seconds)

Get two things done at once

Try doing this simple things at the same time to save yourself a few minutes.

-While doing your hair and make up entertain your toddler with some yummy breakfast and if you allow it maybe turn on your toddlers favorite show. (10 minutes)

-Allow your toddler to brush their teeth while you brush yours. When you finish simply help your toddler brushing. (2 minutes 30 seconds)

-By this time your toddler should be able to follow simple directions. While getting dressed ask your toddler to find his or her shoes, baby doll, and anything else they may wear or take that day. They will feel helpful and you will be able to get dressed. (5 minutes)

Extreme time savers.

These tips are for the Mom's who need to save more time in the morning than the average person.

-Dress your toddler in something comfortable the night before that can be worn the next day. All you need to do the next morning is put on shoes (5 minutes)

-If you straighten your hair with a flat iron in the morning try doing it the night before. I have done this many times and it has come out looking the same the morning after. (30 minutes)

-Eat breakfast on the go. This is not for everyone. I admit I have done this a few times. Have an ensure for breakfast or a cereal bar. Dry cereal is an easy breakfast for most toddlers with little mess involved. (10 minutes)

-Sleep in your car. Okay, that one I'm not serious about, but if you have any items that can be stored in the car the night before have them packed in advance. This will save a little time. (2 minutes)