How to Make Mornings Less Morning-y

A good morning starts with a good night before. Kids who are well-rested tend to have an easier morning the next day. Any prep we can do the night before– laying out clothes, prepping breakfast and lunches in advance– can help make the morning routing less chaotic.

The morning routine also brings us back to the classic parenting rule "Put your own oxygen mask on first." If you can take even a little time for yourself while you let your kids play in the morning, it can help you face the rest of your day, and your kids, in a better headspace.

On busy mornings, consider turning off the tech once everyone is up. Fighting over when it's time to turn off screens and get ready can add conflict to a situation that's already chaotic.

But we say do what works for you and your family. Don't try to completely revamp your morning routine all at once. Start small with one change, like taking a shower before the kids wake up or making a protein-rich breakfast for the whole family. Don't try to make everything perfect right away. Not every morning will be smooth sailing, but small changes can make a big difference in making your mornings just a little less stressful.

Articles cited in this episode:

The Self-Aware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building a Better Bond with Your Child (featuring Dr. Jerry Bubrick of the Child Mind Institute)

Busy Toddler

This Simple Balance

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