My Morning Tips for Getting Out the Door with Small Kids

If you are reading this, I am guessing you are searching for some morning tips to help with the chaos of small kids! Mornings with small kids can feel like navigating a circus act. As a mum of 4 kids, I feel that one to my core! By the time you get out the door, you feel like you have run an obstacle course with zero control of what’s coming next on the course! If you are constantly feeling frazzled in the mornings, give some of these tips a try. Over time, these strategies can help make mornings smoother and less stressful for everyone involved (hopefully!)

1. Prep the Night Before

Evening preparation can save a lot of time and hassle. Lay out clothes for yourself and the kids, including socks, shoes, and coats. Pack bags for childcare, school, and work, and prepare breakfast items like cereal or overnight oats in advance. Let toddlers choose their outfits the night before and lay them out in the shape of a person to minimize morning outfit drama.

2. Stick to a Routine

Consistency is key. Create a simple, predictable order of tasks: wake-up, dress, breakfast, teeth brushing, and out the door. Visual charts or fun songs can help toddlers stay engaged and on track.

3. Tag-Team When Possible

If you have a partner at home, divide responsibilities to make mornings more manageable. One person can handle breakfast while the other gets the kids dressed. If solo parenting, prioritize tasks strategically to avoid overwhelm.

4. Simplify Breakfast

Keep breakfast simple and predictable. Quick, non-messy options like yogurt pouches, bananas, toast, or fruit muffins can save time and reduce cleanup. Preparing a batch of healthy muffins in advance can also provide an easy grab-and-go option for parents and kids alike.

5. Dress the Youngest First

Getting the youngest child dressed first can help avoid delays. Contain them in a high chair or playpen afterward to keep them safe and occupied. For older kids, encourage independence by letting them dress themselves or assist with small tasks. Choose clothing with minimal fastenings to save time. Shoes they can do themselves, with stickers inside if needed to show L or R.

6. Set Up a Staging Area by the Door

Designate a spot near the door for shoes, coats, and bags to avoid last-minute scrambling. A well-organized “grab-and-go” station can save valuable time and reduce stress.

7. Allow a Time Buffer

Plan to leave at least 10 minutes earlier than necessary. This extra time can accommodate unexpected hiccups like tantrums, forgotten items, or last-minute toilet needs.

8. Involve the Older Kids

Turn getting ready into a game to keep older kids engaged. For example, challenge them to find their shoes before you count to 30. Assigning small, manageable tasks can also help them feel involved and lighten your load.

9. Keep an Emergency ‘Grab Bag’

Keep a small bag of essentials in the car, including nappies, wipes, snacks, water bottles, and hair ties. This “survival kit” can be a lifesaver for forgotten items or unexpected delays.

10. Stay Calm and Positive

Accept that mornings won’t always go as planned. A positive attitude can make a big difference. Use calming mantras like “We’ll get there eventually,” sing silly songs, or dance your way out the door to lighten the mood. Deep breathing and humor can help everyone start the day on a brighter note.

With these tips, you can transform hectic mornings into smoother, more manageable starts to your day. For more advice and resources, visit The Parent Nest Resources or explore The Parent Nest Blog for additional support.

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