Getting everyone out the door in the morning isn't easy. It certainly isn't a job that you should do yourself, particularly if your children are school-aged. Develop your own morning routine and make sure the kids also have one.
Age-appropriate chores and tasks, from getting dressed to loading the dishwasher to making lunches, will make it easier for your children to help themselves - and you - prepare for the day. Establishing and maintaining a routine will be easier if you remember to:
- Offer praise. In the hustle and bustle of the morning, it is easy to overlook when good work gets done. Take the time to say "good job" and "thank you."
- Simplify directions. A long list of directions is likely to be quickly forgotten by easily distracted children. Keep it short.
- Patience. It may take a while for the kids to get used to a morning routine. Gentle, persistent reminders will keep them on task.