As a stay at home homeschooling mom, my kids are always near me and in “my space.” I’ve gotten used to it over time and picked up a few tips to make life easier even with lots of kids around. At this time my kids ages are 13, 12, 7 & 5 so while we don’t have babies any more, we still have a lot of people in our home and therefore lots of messes and activities going on a daily basis.
As summer is here, many mom’s maybe like yourself, are already overwhelmed with the Summer and your kids being home, eating all the food in the house and destroying every square inch of your house. Oh and the laundry, let’s not forget how much laundry is created when everyone is home all summer.
You’re already super busy, so let me just get to the point and here are my tips and mom hacks to help you make the most of your summer home with your little blessings.
Feel free to watch the video if you don’t want to read these tips.
1. Shop at Aldi if you have one close by. The savings on snacks, fruits veggies and everything in between is totally worth it. If you don’t have an Aldi, stock up on any bogo item at your local grocery story. Also don’t be afraid to check out the Sav A Lot’s or any other “not so popular” grocery store chain in your area. They typically have lower prices on the same foods you get at your fancy grocery stores. The local markets are great places to get some deals as well.
2. Buy extra protein based foods like cheese, deli meats, eggs and protein powders or Shakeology for shakes and smoothies. Kids have hollow legs and bellies. Fill them up with something with protein first before you give them the sugary cereals and snacks. Check pinterest for ideas for protein snacks for kids.
3. Get up early…yes even in the summer. Read Hal Elrod’s book The Miracle Morning and in particular The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families. It’s full of tips on how to have a great morning. The biggest tip is to practice the S.A.V.E.R.S mentioned in the book.
4. Make a list at night of what all you accomplished that day and what things you want to accomplish the next day.
5. Make a summer bucket list. You don’t have to do it all, but as you think of fun things to do and write them down it gives you and your kids something to look forward to each week.
6. Make a summer chore list. The kids will make lots of messes, so have a chore list and give each kid a chore to accomplish before they can watch a screen. Set a timer and play some music. Have fun with them doing their chores and make it a race. Especially for kids ages 3-5. They love a competition.
7. Schedule some rest or nap time. Everyone needs a little quiet down time each day so don’t be afraid to schedule it in and tell the kids mom needs a nap now.
8. Let kids get bored. Make an “I’m bored” jar filled with ideas for when they are bored.
9. Pay your kids for doing chores in $$ if you have it or in treats. I had mine clean out my van and I paid them in getting a Pelican’s snoball. It cost me less than paying someone else to clean the van.
10. The messes and laundry will be massive. Especially if you’re not used to kids being home all day. Set a timer and make them help if they are old enough. Have a morning, afternoon and evening 15 minute clean up time. It won’t get out of hand as much if you do it throughout the day.
11. If kids are old enough to write, have a journal handy for them to write their complaints in. Then have them tear them up and put them in the trash or shredder. Tell them you have a no whining policy this summer and they will have to start writing and then shredding their complaints if they are going to let them out of their mouths. Then make them write what they are grateful for.
Have an attitude of gratitude. The more You recognize and express gratitude for the things you have, the more things you will have to express gratitude for. Zig Ziglar
12. Get outside. Discover local parks, pools and check your Facebook events for free events and things to do this summer. Go to the library or local museum. If you can afford it get a pass to the closest theme park.
13. Have fun mom! The summer will truly fly by and the memories you make are truly priceless. You’ve got what it takes to make this a great summer.
If you have any more tips feel free to share them below.
Sincerely,
Paige
