Things I cannot recommend enough
unsolicited mom advice
Look, I keep four kids alive every day so I know what I’m talking about.
Without further ado, the things that have made my life infinitely better since having kids:
Slugs and Bugs.
I am not afraid to admit that I listen to their scripture songs CDs unironically when I am alone in the car. My kids love them too (and don’t miss Tractor, Tractor!).
Poetry/read aloud tea time.
The Random House Book of Poetry for Children is a great place to start.
Grandma’s Secret stain remover.
Many a pair of pants has been saved by this stuff.
Having Dad do bedtime alone.
I am no longer involved with bedtime and everyone is calmer for it.
Assigning each kid a color for water bottles, cups, plates, etc
Kids sharing a room
Magnet boards
Inviting the kids to pray with you
Sleep sacks.
You know, the ones that make your baby look like a pudgy little starfish? 100% worth it, especially in the newborn stage.
CLAW CLIPS (why did I wait so long to get on this train?)
Monitoring your daughter while she uses her chapstick because she WILL try to eat it
Creating a WWE ring out of floor pillows for the boy cousins during get-togethers
Getting excited about every construction vehicle/train/truck you see
Playing piano and singing the kids’ favorite songs with them.
Kids love this. And it will turn your afternoon into a hallmark card.
Saline nose spray!
Yes, you might have to hold your kiddo down to administer the spray, but I assure you it’s worth it. Many a sinus infection has been prevented in our house this way.
Tula baby carrier. So pretty, so comfy—and only two buckles!
Teaching the kids how to play Mario kart.
You’re welcome, now you can sit and read a book for twenty minutes uninterrupted.
The Yoto player
LOTR marathons
Memorizing and reciting poems, movie quotes, etc
Co-sleeping (just try it)
FINDING A REALLY GOOD PLAYGROUND AND SITTING YOUR BUTT ON A BENCH WHILE THE KIDS PLAY. Seriously, sit down. Sit.
BONUS: Things I can’t un-recommend enough
sectioned plates for toddlers
Fabric hi-chair seat covers
Trying to spoon-feed a four month old. Everyone is going to tell you to do it, seriously don’t. It benefits no one.
Giving kids markers in any situation
Cocomelon
Telling your kids Santa is real
Panicking when they get hurt. Clap and tell ‘em good job instead. Works 80% of the time.
You’re welcome!
What’s on your list?
These are all so great! Thank you. Have you ever asking your kids to pray FOR you? I started doing this especially on days when I feel angry and overwhelmed and it was so precious to hear their prayers for me. Plus, it taught them that they could encourage and pray, even for adults.
Yes, bless you! I'm seriously considering having my husband take over bedtime exclusively (on evenings when he's home) because ugh.... A million requests that never end. Also I love the poetry idea!