Secrets to a Lower Stress Morning: A Parent's Guide from SolBe Mar
Mornings – Jeez Louise. I was not a morning person before…and now, no shot. I need a really solid plan in order to get out the door without it being a whirlwind of chaos and a mad dash to be on time. As parents, we've all been there, wondering why something as seemingly simple as leaving the house can become such a monumental challenge. As a new parent (who has been watching this through the educators lens for years) I REALLY understand the morning struggle all too well. That's why I would like to share some educator-approved secrets to transforming your mornings into peaceful and productive moments, from the perspective of a parent who's been through it all.
Planning Ahead: Setting the Stage for Success
Prep is Key: The night before can make all the difference. Lay out your child's clothes (and your clothes…it is hard enough to look like a functioning human in the AM), pack their bag, and even set the breakfast table. This small effort can significantly cut down on morning chaos.
Meal Prep Magic: Like your morning routine, breakfast can also benefit from some advance planning. I have been making our little guy these BANANAS, banana pancakes. I will share the full recipe and a video in the coming days…but I sneak all kinds of goodies in there to kick his day off. By incorporating ground Chia seeds and ground flax, you're boosting your child's breakfast with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Chia seeds also expand in liquid, helping your child feel fuller for longer – a key advantage for busy mornings.
Streamlining Your Morning Routine
Two Birds, One Stone: For breastfeeding moms, consider pumping a mini bottle before bed. This not only saves you time in the morning but also ensures your little one has milk ready at school for the first feed. I also have to remind myself to defrost a bottle overnight so it is good to pop into his backpack in the AM.
Nighttime Self-Care: Being a mom is hard…being a full-time working mom, D*NM. It is so much more than I ever imagined. Taking care of yourself is crucial. Opt for showering and doing your hair at night, leaving your mornings free for essentials. I also have a kajillion baby hairs and look like a meme…so its important to take care of that so I do not look unhinged at work. :)
Pre-Made Breakfast Wins: my BANANAS, banana pancakes aren't just a hit with our little one – they're a lifesaver for you too! With nutrient-packed ingredients and minimal clean-up, this breakfast is a win-win for busy mornings.
Packing It All Together
Pre-Packed Essentials: Your bag can be a source of morning stress or a time-saving asset. Packing your work essentials, pumping supplies, and everything else you need the night before can help you grab and go without the morning frenzy.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Involve your child in the morning routine as much as possible. Let them choose their clothes, help set the breakfast table, and even assist in getting their bag ready. This not only empowers them but also lightens your load. If you have a partner…let’s not leave them out of the mix! Ty and I do an “order of operations” and then decide who takes each task. Sometimes this works…sometimes is does not. haha.
The Art of Graceful Mornings
In the end, the secrets to a stress-free morning boil down to careful planning, healthy habits, and involving your child in the process. SolBe Mar's approach to education extends beyond the classroom – we're here to support parents too. By integrating these educator-approved tips into your routine, you'll find that those chaotic mornings become moments of connection, growth, and empowerment for both you and your child.
Remember, our days are a journey, and each step counts. Let's make your morning journey a smoother, happier one.
