Ways to Make Mornings with Kids Less Stressful

Getting kids out of bed and ready for school can be challenging, especially when the kids aren't very cooperative. Some kids want to spend valuable time watching television, while others don't want to get out of bed at all. This can make mornings very stressful, especially when kids have to shower, eat breakfast, and catch the bus.

If you're having problems getting your kids going in the morning, and if you find yourself completely frazzled and mentally as well as physically exhausted, give these tips and ideas a try. Getting ready for school or work doesn't have to be stressful. Mornings really can be much less draining and much less stressful for parents and kids alike.

Get Ready the Night Before

If kids are too young to choose their own clothes, or if they can't seem to get going in the morning, make mornings less stressful by choosing clothes the night before. In addition, if showers take too long in the morning, insist that kids take showers or baths the afternoon or evening before. Don't listen to complaints about bed head. If kids can't get going fast enough in the morning they'll have no choice but to get ready the night before. The less tasks to do in the morning, the less stressful the morning will be for everyone.

Turn Off the Television

Kids who don't get ready for school as quickly as they should are more than likely distracted, and the television is a major distraction. Turn off the television, and make it clear that the television won't be turned back on until after breakfast and until everyone is dressed and ready to go. Once nothing is left to do, it's okay to watch television until it's time to go out the door.

Make Breakfast Time Quick and Easy

Breakfast can be an extremely stressful time for kids and parents, and it shouldn't be. If breakfast is taking far too much time, consider simpler options. Choose toaster pastries, microwavable breakfast sandwiches, and nutritious breakfast bars. Breakfast shouldn't take 20 minutes to eat, and without distractions, it won't.

Put a Stop to the Arguing