I’m sure, like most, that parenting is one of the most difficult things I have ever done. There doesn’t seem to be any right answer to a lot of your parenting questions, especially as you start out. That’s why the advice of more seasoned parents seems to be so important.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for “Life Hacks” or parenting tips to make your life easier. 

Here are my Top 4 Parenting Life Hacks and Tips

Wipes Make Everything Better

If you’ve been a parent longer than 6 weeks, you’ve probably already realized how much easier baby wipes can make your life. Just in case you haven’t, I’ll tell you here and now. Long after your kids are out of diapers, you should be buying baby wipes. They are perfect for cleaning hands and faces on the go. Not to mention great for first aid, general cleaning, spills at home or in the car, and countless other jobs. Keep um anywhere you are! The car, the office, the RV, home, the bathroom, everywhere!

Develop a Routine Early

The sooner you develop a routine, the better! Be consistent with your kids and your life will be so much easier. My own mother stressed the importance of this to me pretty early on. Me being an amazing son, I heeded her advice immediately…. Ok, so maybe that’s not true, but now I know the importance of following through with a routine. Though some nights it takes longer than others, Mads can pretty much get herself ready for bed. Like any other, almost, 5 year old she would much rather spend her time playing with the water at the sink instead of brushing her teeth. BUT, The point is Madison has a routine for just about everything now and she knows exactly what to do and when.

Here, Hold This….

Oftentimes, especially as they get a bit old, kids just want to be involved in what you’re doing. Madison often asks if she can help me even when it’s the simplest of tasks. On occasion I’ll be nearly done with what I’m doing before she asks to be of assistance. Instead of telling her no, I’ll have her to hold an item for me while I finish or ask to put something I’ve already finished with away. Madison feels fulfilled and I don’t have to put the bread away, It’s a Win-Win!

There are Germs on That!!

I don’t know if anyone else has a similar problem, but Mads touches everything when were out in public. She’s gotten better about is since COVID-19 decided to rear it’s ugly head, but the problem still persist in a small scale. The place where I find in most concerning is in public restrooms. These places don’t have the best track record for being clean, especially toilet seats. Without a doubt, whenever Mads sits on a toilet she’s going to put her hand on the seat. Even with a courtesy sheet, it’s pretty gross. The way I’ve learned to combat this is similar to our last hack. I give her an item to hold while she does her business. This keeps her from placing her hands on the seat and gives her a goal to focus on. By the time were finished, her little hand are relatively clean and aren’t cover in Lord knows what.

What are some of your best Parenting Hacks and Tips?