We live in a busy world. It seems like there’s never enough time to get done all the things we’d like. We can definitely feel this problem most strongly in the mornings when we’re trying to get our family out of the house. Here are some tips to simplify your morning routine and speed everything up.

1. Wake up a few minutes earlier than the kids

If you find yourself struggling to get ready while you wrangle the kids, you’ll find it easier to wake up a few minutes before them and get yourself ready for the day. You’ll be able to shower and dress without being interrupted.

2. Pick out outfits the night before

A big part of everyone’s morning routine is deciding on which clothes to wear. Solve this problem the night before for everyone, including yourself. This way you’ll take the decision making out of your hands and you’ll have time to adequately prepare appropriate clothes (for the weather, where you’re going, etc.).

3. Drop everything by the door

To save yourself from forgetting something and having to run back home, put everything everyone needs by the door the night before. This includes mom and dad’s briefcase or workbag, the kids’ school bags, instruments, special school projects, etc.

4. Nix the distractions

Even if you have a few spare minutes, don’t let the kids get enthralled by the TV or start some elaborate project they won’t want to stop. It’s not the time to check your email or make a quick work phone call.

5. Enlist your kids

Delegate some morning tasks to your children to complete. Put one in charge of brining everyone’s items to the car. One could make everyone’s bed while another can make breakfast (likely an older child).

6. Get to sleep on time

If you aren’t getting enough sleep (or quality sleep) at night, you’ll be tempted to allow yourself to sleep until the last possible minute. Then you have to rush to get through your morning routine to get out the door on time. Put yourself to sleep earlier if you have to or find out what’s keeping you awake at night, so you be awake in the morning with time to spare.

7. Prepare breakfast ahead of time

Breakfast is often the bottleneck that trips us up in the morning. Prepare meals in advance to streamline this process, or serve meals that take little preparation time. Weekday mornings aren’t the time for waffles, but bagels with cream cheese and tomato are quick and easy.

8. Play some music

Music is a great way to put everyone in the mood and keep a pace. It doesn’t distract us like a television would. Play something upbeat in the morning to get everyone’s body moving.

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for asubluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.

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