11 Mom Hacks To Simplify Life With A Toddler
Being a mom to a toddler is a rollercoaster ride—there are moments of joy, frustration, and sometimes complete chaos!
I remember one morning when my little one decided to paint the living room wall with mashed peas right before we had to leave for daycare.
I had five minutes to clean up, change her clothes, and somehow get us both out the door on time. Sound familiar?
If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for ways to make your life a little easier. As a mom who’s been through it all, here are 11 tried-and-true hacks that have helped me keep my sanity and simplify life with a toddler.
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Must Know Mom Hacks For The Toddler Years
1. Use a Shoe Organizer for Toddler Gear
Hang a shoe organizer on the back of your toddler’s closet door to store small items like socks, shoes, hats, and gloves. It keeps everything visible and within easy reach. Trust me, you’ll save time in the morning when you’re rushing to find that missing sock.
2. Snack Stations
Keep a snack station at home and in the car. Pre-pack small containers of your toddler’s favorite snacks, like crackers or fruit, and store them in a bin in the pantry or car. It keeps your little one fed and happy during unexpected meltdowns.
3. Invest in a High-Quality Travel Potty
Toddlers are unpredictable when it comes to potty training, so a travel potty is a must-have for any mom on the go. Keep one in the car for emergencies. It’ll save you from those “I need to go now!” moments when you’re nowhere near a bathroom.
4. Lay Out Clothes the Night Before
Pick out clothes for both you and your toddler the night before. This helps eliminate the morning frenzy of finding something to wear when you’re running late.
5. Easy, Wipeable Bibs
Mealtime messes are inevitable with toddlers, but using wipeable bibs can make cleanup a breeze. I keep a few extras in my diaper bag just in case we end up at a messy lunch situation.
6. Create a Toddler-Friendly Kitchen Drawer
Dedicate one drawer in the kitchen for your toddler’s plates, cups, and snacks. It gives them a sense of independence, and they love being able to help themselves. Plus, it saves you from constantly fetching things for them.
7. Use a Folding Step Stool
Toddlers are naturally curious, and they love to “help” around the house. A folding step stool or toddler tower lets them reach counters and tables, so they can be a part of simple tasks like washing hands or helping with cooking (under supervision, of course!).
8. Rotate Toys for Less Clutter
Instead of having every toy out at once, keep some in storage and rotate them every few weeks. It keeps your toddler interested in their toys and prevents your living room from looking like a toy store exploded.
9. Plan Outfits Around Easy Footwear
When you’re trying to get out the door with a toddler, you don’t have time for complicated shoes.
Opt for easy-on toddler shoes that your little one can slip on themselves.
And while we’re talking shoes, remember that best footwear for moms is all about comfort—look for stylish slip-on sneakers that allow you to chase your toddler without slowing down.
10. Invest in a Busy Bag
A busy bag filled with small toys, coloring books, and snacks can be a lifesaver during doctor’s appointments, long car rides, or when you just need a few minutes of peace. Keep one in the car and rotate the contents to keep it fresh.
11. Use a Multi-Use Baby Carrier
A good baby carrier will give you the freedom to keep your toddler close while having your hands free. Whether you’re running errands or just need to carry your toddler through the grocery store without a meltdown, this can be a game-changer.
Bottom Line
These are just a few of the hacks I’ve discovered on my journey of toddler parenting. Life with a little one can be crazy, but these small changes can make your days run a little smoother. And, trust me, sometimes it’s the little things that can make a big difference!
By incorporating these hacks, you can focus on enjoying the special moments—like your toddler’s belly laughs or those tight hugs—without feeling completely overwhelmed.
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