Wanting to get out and about with your children this summer but finding that getting out of the door is a bit of a challenge? If getting ready and organised feels like a chore, you’re not alone. Here’s Cora Gold of lifestyle magazine Revivalist with her top time-saving tips on leaving the house with little ones – all while keeping your stress levels at bay.
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Why Leaving The House With Little Ones Can Sometimes Feel Like A Marathon
Leaving the house with kids can feel like preparing for a cross-country move: the snacks, the wipes, the forgotten shoe (usually yours). Whether you’re heading to nursery, the shops or you’re just trying to avoid another episode of Peppa Pig, every minute counts. With a few strategies, you can avoid the chaos and shave some serious time off your morning routine. Here are my top tips for how you can make your life as a parent that little bit easier.
1. Prep The Night Before
Mornings with little ones are unpredictable. Someone always needs an emergency outfit change, a different cup or a toy you haven’t seen in weeks. That’s why a bit of night-before prep goes a long way.
Lay out clothes for both you and the kids. Pack bags with nappies, snacks and water bottles. If you’re heading to nursery or a playdate, pop everything by the door. You’ll thank yourself when the morning mayhem hits and you’re already halfway out the door. If you’re a work-from-home parent, you can also ensure you stick to a schedule to stay productive even if things are chaotic before leaving for nursery.
2. Keep A ‘Go Bag’ Ready – Leaving The House With Little Ones
If you’ve ever found yourself rummaging for wipes with one hand while juggling a wriggling toddler with the other, this one’s for you. Keep a pre-packed ‘go bag’ by the door or in the car at all times. Stock it with the essentials like nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, a small toy, and hand sanitiser. As soon as you get home, top it up again so it’s always ready. It saves you from starting from scratch every single time you need to leave the house in a hurry.
3. Simplify The Morning Routine
The less you have to think in the morning, the better. That goes for you and your little ones. Having a consistent routine sets a calm tone for the day. Studies even show that structured routines help children thrive. Stick to a simple routine — wash, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, put on shoes, and go. Visual charts work wonders for toddlers who like to know what’s next.
4. Dress Yourself First
It might sound counterintuitive when your toddler is already halfway up the curtains, but getting yourself dressed first is a game-changer. When you’re ready to go, you’re less likely to get caught out in pyjamas with cereal on your top. It also gives you a few uninterrupted minutes to breathe before the mini tornadoes get going. Once you’re set, it’s easier to help the kids, and they’ll often follow your lead when they see you’re ready for the day.
5. Use Timers To Stay On Track
If mornings often turn into a slow-motion marathon, a timer can work magic. Set a fun kitchen timer or use a visual countdown app to help toddlers understand how long they have to eat, brush their teeth or put on shoes. It turns transitions into a game instead of a power struggle. Find a timer where they can visually see the time disappearing, as this will help them grasp the concept and save you from repeating yourself.
6. Create A Doorway ‘Launch Pad’
Say goodbye to frantic searches for missing items and rogue jackets. A doorway ‘launch pad’ is your best friend. This is the one spot where you keep everyday essentials like shoes, coats, bags, sunhats and keys. You can even assign a little hook or basket for each child.
Having everything ready in one spot means you can scoop up your bags, manoeuvre the kids and make your exit without tearing the house apart. It’s a small change that makes a massive difference.
7. Batch Your Errands Together
When you leave the house, make it count. Try to group errands based on timing or location so you’re not in and out multiple times. Avoid peak toddler meltdown times – late afternoons are usually danger zones. If you have a baby, consider babywearing for quick stops, as it keeps your hands free and saves time fiddling with prams. Planning smarter means fewer outings and a happier you.
8. Aim For ‘Good Enough’ – Leaving The House With Little Ones
Not every morning is going to go smoothly. Some days, the toddler will refuse to wear trousers. Some days, you’ll feel like refusing to wear trousers. That’s OK. The goal isn’t perfection – it’s getting out the door, with everyone mostly dressed and at least partially fed. Cut yourself some slack. Sometimes ‘good enough’ is more than enough, and you deserve a high five just for showing up.
Out The Door, But Never A Bore
Leaving the house with little ones will always be a bit of a circus, but that doesn’t mean it has to be total chaos. With a few of these time-saving tricks in your back pocket, you can trim the tantrums and get on with your day. If you only remember one thing, remember you’re not alone in this. Every parent has had a meltdown moment at the front door. Yours just happens to be a little more stylish and prepared now — well done, you!
Thanks To Cora Gold – Parenting Writer And Editor Of Revivalist
Cora Gold is a parenting writer and editor of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. When she’s not spending time with her little ones and pets, she loves crafting, doing yoga and reading. Cora has also written for CafeMom and Scary Mommy, and she can be found on LinkedIn, X and Pinterest.
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