We all know how irritating it can be to wake up to that first 6 a.m. alarm on a Monday morning back to school. Still, if you're looking for a morning pick-me-up, here are nine simple solutions to put a pep in your step.
- Set out everyone’s outfits before going to sleep the night before. Nothing halts carpool like a missing shoe.
- Meal prep some go-to snacks for lunches. Cutting up vegetables Sunday night can save you time during the week.
- Perfect the healthy balanced breakfast. Sometimes that balance means juggling a bottle of milk in one hand and a breakfast bar in the other, but it still gets the job done.
- Keep all backpacks in one centralized place in your house. Then you can just grab and run to the car.
- Give your older kids their own responsibilities in the morning. Whether that means feeding the dog or making their own beds, it’s one less thing that’s left for you.
- Ensure everyone goes to sleep a little earlier than normal. A good night’s rest makes everything a little easier.
- Shut off devices an hour before bedtime. Screens can make it difficult to wind down.
- Make the routine fun by adding some excitement into the morning. Crank up the tunes, jam out in the car or have a 30-second dance party before walking out the door — it’s a great way to put a smile on their faces before sending them off on their way.
- Stay calm through it all. A deep breath can do wonders first thing in the morning