Parents Are Sharing Their Favorite “Hacks” That Will Drastically Improve Life With Kids, And They’re Truly Game-Changing
1. Create a “Busy Box” for Car Rides
Long car rides can be tough on kids. To keep them entertained, make a “busy box.” Fill it with small toys, coloring books, and snacks. This simple trick will keep them occupied for hours.
2. Use a Shoe Organizer for Road Trips
Hang a shoe organizer on the back of your car seat. You can fill the pockets with snacks, toys, and other essentials. It’s an easy way to keep everything within reach and organized.
3. Turn Chores into a Game
Kids might not love chores, but you can make them fun! Create a chore chart with rewards for completing tasks. Turning chores into a game can motivate kids to help out around the house.
4. Freeze Juice Boxes for Mess-Free Ice Packs
If your child gets a bump or bruise, grab a frozen juice box from the freezer. It works as a mess-free ice pack and doubles as a refreshing treat once it melts a bit.
5. Use a Pool Noodle to Baby-Proof Doors
Cut a pool noodle in half lengthwise and place it over the top of a door. This prevents little fingers from getting pinched and keeps doors from slamming shut.
6. Make a DIY Calm Down Jar
Fill a jar with water, glitter, and a few drops of food coloring. When your child needs to calm down, shake the jar and watch the glitter settle. It’s a soothing way to help them relax.
7. Label Drawers with Pictures
For younger kids who can’t read yet, use pictures to label drawers. This helps them learn where things belong and makes clean-up time easier and faster.
8. Use a Fitted Sheet at the Beach
Bring a fitted sheet to the beach. Place your bags and cooler at the corners to hold it up. This creates a sand-free area for your little ones to play.
9. Make a Snack Station
Create a snack station in your kitchen that your kids can access. Fill it with healthy snacks so they can grab something themselves when they’re hungry.
10. Use a Muffin Tin for Snacks
Serve snacks in a muffin tin. Fill each cup with a different snack like fruit, cheese, and crackers. It’s a fun way for kids to enjoy a variety of foods.
11. Keep a Change of Clothes in the Car
Always have a change of clothes in the car. You never know when an accident or spill will happen. This hack saves you from unexpected messes.
12. Use Stickers to Teach Left and Right Shoes
Cut a sticker in half and place one half in each shoe. When the stickers match up, your child knows they have their shoes on the right feet. It’s a simple way to teach left and right!
These hacks are easy to try and can make a big difference in your daily routine. Give them a go and see how much smoother life with kids can be!