As the summer draws to a close, it’s time to prepare our little ones for another exciting school year. The flu season is approaching, with many speculations of it coming earlier than usual, it’s best to take proactive steps to keep our toddlers healthy and minimize the risk of infections. Here are some simple suggestions to parents and caregivers to hopefully ensure a smooth transition into the school routine while safeguarding the children’s well-being.
Encourage Good Hygiene Practices
Teaching toddlers good hygiene habits is crucial in keeping them healthy. After a few years of COVID experience, frequent handwashing was a regular part of our routine. But with life getting back to normality as the pandemic left us, our guard could be down again on maintaining personal hygiene. Now is a good time to give the kiddies a refresher course on the basics! Show them how to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. Reinforce the concept of not touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimize the risk of infection. Encourage them to use their own water bottle and avoid sharing personal items to reduce exposure to germs. Regularly sanitizing the children’s frequently used items can also minimize germs and bacteria around them.
Keep the vitamins coming
A healthy diet plays a significant role in strengthening the immune system. Let’s make sure the little ones eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins so that they get enough essential vitamins and minerals that support their immune function. Healthy lunches and snacks can ensure they’re getting the right nutrients throughout the day, avoiding excessive sugar which can weaken the immune system. Get the kids involved in meal planning and preparation, so we can raise their awareness of healthy eating habits from a young age.
Get enough sleep
It is common knowledge that our bodies heal and revitalize during sleep which can help fight off infections, therefore, sufficient sleep is essential for our children’s overall health. It is important to establish a consistent bedtime routine that allows for the recommended 10-12 hours of sleep per night. Try to create a calm and soothing environment to promote quality sleep. and avoid screen time before bed as it can interfere with their sleep patterns.
Get them vaccinated
Check the vaccination record of your kids to ensure everything is up-to-date! The annual fluvaccine can be also a good way to minimize the chance of the little ones catching nasty cases of flu in the season. Then there are also the chicken pox (varicella) vaccinations that I personally think young school children would need because the chance of them being exposed to chicken pox at school or daycares is really high. Vaccinations are a critical preventive measure that protects against various illnesses and it is best to discuss this with your kids’ pediatrician to make the best decisions for them.
As we gear up for another school year, prioritizing the health of our little ones is of utmost importance. With good hygiene practices, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and staying on top of immunizations, we can help our kids stay healthy and resilient in the face of the upcoming flu season and school year.
Stay Sparky!
Challenges of a new Dad
Becoming a father is a significant life-changing event for men because it is a time of excitement, joy, and new responsibilities. However, it is not without its challenges when transitioning into fatherhood, and the new father’s psychological needs are often overlooked. So, this blog post is dedicated to all fathers who have braved this experience and new fathers that are currently taking on this challenge. You are not alone and we appreciate your effort!
The struggle is real
I think for new mothers since they have 9 months to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the arrival of their baby, it is more natural for them to bond with their newborns from the first day. Their mother instinct kicks in the moment their baby latches on to their breast. But for men, I can imagine that this new family dynamics could feel like a sudden one no matter how they would have imagined it during their partner’s pregnancy, and bonding with their newborn child does not seem as natural as they thought. In fact, it is quite common among new fathers to feel insecure and lonely during this period, so much so that there are many studies on the psychological well-being of men in the first few months of their role as fathers.
Don’t be shy to share
Many new dads may experience feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression when they first become a father. Apart from wanting to make sure the mother and baby are getting everything they need and worrying about the risk of postnatal depression for his partner, there is also the pressure of being a good father, provider, and role model for his child. They may feel like they have lost their identity or sense of self, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness because it is common for men to internalize their fears and sense of insecurity. But Dads, this can increase your risk of suffering from male postpartum depression if you keep sweeping your feelings under the rug. It is incredibly helpful for new dads to come out of your shells and talk to other fathers who have experienced postpartum depression. It can help you feel less alone, provide a sense of community, and offer practical advice for coping with the condition.
Self-care is not only for moms
Taking care of yourself is essential when you’re dealing with the stress of fatherhood. This might mean taking a break from your daily routine to engage in activities that you enjoy, such as exercising, reading a book, or spending time with friends. Other calming activities can also help recharge your energy, this might include practicing relaxation techniques, like meditation or deep breathing, or stress-reducing activities, such as yoga or massage.
You are not alone
Your relationship with your partner might not be the same anymore now that you have your little bundle of joy because there is a shift in priorities and responsibilities. It’s important to communicate openly with your other half about each other’s feelings. Only an open communication can help you both to give each other the support you need and to function well as a family.
Becoming a father is a life-changing event that comes with its own set of challenges. However, with the right support and resources, you can overcome these challenges and thrive as a great dad and a loving partner. It is essential to seek out support from family, friends, and even professionals to help you navigate the challenges of fatherhood. You got this, Dad!
Happy Father’s Day and Stay Sparky!
Creating memories together
Summer is almost here and it’s time to think about what to do with the kids this Summer holiday. Remember the days of “carefree” holidays with just you and your partner? Now that you are a family with a couple of toddlers following your every step, the thought of traveling with them can be intimidating. Being parents of babies or toddlers doesn’t mean you need to be tied down by them and have to give up those travel adventures. While it may require more planning and preparation, you should bring the kiddies along and explore the world with them as early as possible!
Apart from the obvious benefits of exposing your children to new languages, cultures, and experiences that can broaden their horizons, you are also having quality family time away from the routines of everyday life. You can take a break from the mundane and daily stress of home life and just enjoy each other’s company and give the children your undivided attention without distractions. Additionally, this is the perfect occasion to encourage them to have an open mind on new foods and flavors they have not tried before, such as local specialties, street food, and exotic fruits.
For a successful family trip abroad, here are a few tips you can consider when planning your holiday adventures with the kids that can hopefully make your travels with young toddlers more enjoyable and stress-free.
Mastering your packing skills
Based on your itinerary, the climate, location, and activities in your holiday destination, pack accordingly. Make a list of essential items, such as diapers, wipes, snacks, booster seat, and toys, and pack them in a carry-on bag. Book child-friendly accommodations, such as hotels or Airbnb rentals that provide cribs, and other amenities for young children. Bring along some new small toys (so the kids don’t get bored by them too soon), books, and games to keep your toddlers entertained during the trip. Pack some basic snacks that your kids like with enough to start off your trip for a couple of days, then you can find similar ones or other local treats to replace them as your holiday progresses. This can ease the children slowly from things they are familiar with to something new.
Routine vs Ad Hoc
I used to adhere to screen-time limits for our kids religiously when they were at home, but in those long-haulflights, I had to throw those limits out the plane window! As long as the kiddies got a few hours of shut-eye during the flight, they can enjoy their favorite cartoons or other programs they normally don’t get at home on the flight. One more thing to get them excited about flying! Trying to maintain your toddler’s routines as much as possible during the trip can help them adjust to the new environment. However, traveling requires a certain amount of flexibility from the family, be it nap time, snack choices, or sleeping arrangements. This is actually a life skill that the kids can learn at a young age because flexibility and adaptability are essential to their personal and professional growth. When you are stressed about not being able to stick to the routine, your children get stressed too! So, do be prepared to “go with the flow” when it comes to scheduling and menu options, after all, let yourselves relax a bit (with good judgment) on your holiday.
Keeping your cool
Consider booking direct flights or flights that are scheduled during your toddler’s nap time to minimize disruptions to their sleepschedule. But be prepared for unexpected delays or disruptions, such as flight cancellations or traffic jams. Bring extra clothing, diapers, and snacks, just in case. Be patient and understanding, and try to keep a positive attitude, even when things don’t go as planned. Hakuna Matata, all will be well!
Embrace the experience
Traveling with young toddlers can be challenging, but it can also be a wonderful and memorable experience. Embrace the opportunity to explore new places, learn new things, and create lasting memories with your family. Don’t be too ambitious, plan for regular breaks and playtime, which can help your toddler burn off energy and reduce restlessness. Take lots of photos and videos to document your travels, and involve your children in the experience as much as possible. Let them help plan activities or choose restaurants, which can help them feel more involved and engaged. You may be surprised at how much they can learn and grow from the holiday.
Stay Sparky and bon voyage!
Bring them along
Eating out with toddlers can be a daunting experience for parents. From unpredictable tantrums to picky eating habits, there are numerous challenges to overcome. Despite that, we used to bring our babies along to all sorts of restaurants and eateries from very early on. For us, it was the best way to merge our social life with our family life when we hung out with friends and their babies at similar ages as our kids. It is also best to get the kids used to dining out with you from a young age before they become toddlers. However, I do remember the kind of preparation and planning that entailed when we brought our little ones out for meals. After a few practices, with a little bit of planning and some handy tips, you can turn your dining experience into an enjoyable and stress-free outing. Let’s look at some of the most common challenges parents face when eating out with toddlers and the kind of practical solutions we can use to ensure a pleasant mealtime for everyone.
Location, Location, Location!
One of the first challenges parents encounter when eating out with toddlers is finding a suitable restaurant. Not all eateries can accommodate the needs of young children, making it essential to choose a location that is both kid-friendly and enjoyable for adults. I think it is important to understand if the restaurant has a basic setup for kids, namely highchairs. It doesn’t need to be a deal breaker if the restaurant doesn’t have them, but you just need to know ahead of time to go prepared by bringing your own booster seat.
What’s on the menu?
Toddlers can be notoriously picky eaters, which can make ordering meals a challenge. Additionally, some restaurants may not offer a variety of healthy and appealing options for young children. It is therefore best to look up the restaurant’s menu ahead of time and see if you can find something that your child might like. If not, try to ask if the restaurants can make small modifications to the dishes, they usually are more than happy to make an effort to please their littlest guests! As backup, bring along some healthy snacks, like vegetable sticks or small crackers just in case.
Timing is everything
Babies and toddlers have short attention spans and may become restless if they have to wait too long for their meals and potentially disrupting the overall dining experience for everyone. Try to select restaurants that are more efficient or avoid peak dining hours so that you can get served faster. When our daughter was around 1 year old, we would occupy her time by putting small breadcrumbs from the breadbasket of the restaurant in front of her. She would use her tiny fingers to try to pick up the crumbs one at a time and eat them! That could get her occupied for almost the entire meal, and great to train her motor skills too!
Make them feel at home
Public tantrums and outbursts can be a major concern for parents dining out with toddlers. Young children may become overwhelmed in unfamiliar environments, leading to unpredictable behavior. Having something familiar with them can help them feel more at ease, for example, their own portable booster seat or their own set of dining utensils tend to help. Getting them entertained is also an important way to help them pass the time in the restaurant. It is too easy to pull out our own smartphones or a tablet to keep them occupied with the screen. But maybe you can consider bringing a few quiet toys or activities instead while waiting for their meal, after all, it is a family outing and it is the perfect time to play a few games with the kids and get them engaged with you at the dinner table.
Navigating the challenges of eating out with toddlers may be intimidating, but with experience and planning, you will soon find it easy to create a positive dining experience for the whole family. Your kids will get used to the routine of going to a restaurant and learn how to behave when dining in one and things will get much easier as they grow!
Bon Appetit and Stay Sparky!
Looking Back
As Mother’s Day draws near, I reflect on my role as a mother to my kids and what I have learned from this experience so far. Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience that comes with joys, challenges, and surprises. While every woman’s journey is unique, there are some things that I think many moms wish they had known (well, at least I do!) before they embarked on this journey. Let us explore a few key things that could help moms-to-be to better navigate motherhood from day 1.
Motherhood is not always instinctive
Many women assume that being a mother comes naturally, but the truth is that it’s a learned skill. I am sure I am not the only one who felt no mother instinct whatsoever during the first few months of my baby’s life. I still remember not knowing how to hold her when the nurse put our newborn daughter in my arms after I gave birth! I felt totally overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what to do when we brought our baby home. The sense of helplessness was overwhelming when I held my screaming newborn baby and not knowing what was wrong or how to make her stop. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to motherhood, and it’s essential to give yourself grace and time to learn and grow.
Self-care is not Selfish
We are not superhumans that can never get tired or sick and are eternally in the best shape mentally and physically. It is especially demanding when you are a mother. Too often we are putting our own needs last, but self-care is essential for your physical and mental well-being. Taking time to care for yourself is not selfish, but rather a necessary aspect of being a good mother. Whether it’s taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or reading a book, find ways to prioritize your self-care. Children are very intuitive to their parents’ moods and it is better for them to be around a more relaxed parent than a constantly super-stressed one.
Your relationship with your partner will evolve
Navigating a long-term relationship with your partner takes effort on both sides. It’s important to communicate openly, set realistic expectations, and make time for each other. After becoming parents, maintaining a healthy relationship becomes even more vital because having a child can significantly impact the dynamics between you and your significant other. I think it’s natural for your relationship to evolve, but it doesn’t have to be for the worse. In addition to sharing a life together, you also are partners in bringing up the beautiful human being(s) you have created together!
No mother is perfect
One important thing I have learned as a mother to my kids is that I should not be afraid to apologize to them when I made a mistake. As a mother, I am learning this role on-the-job with no prior experience to lean on. So, it is normal for me to sometimes overreact, or be too quick to criticize when the little ones did something “wrong” in my eyes. I hope to set a good example for my children to own up to their mistakes and by admitting to them we are on our way to self-improvement.
Every child is different
Before our second baby was born, I thought babies are like blank pieces of paper when they were born and that it was up to us to teach or mold them into as decent a person in the best way we know how. But I was so surprised to notice how different in personality and temperament our daughters are since the moment they were born! I finally understood the true meaning of the saying, “Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another”. It’s essential to understand that my child is unique and to be patient and flexible as I learn what works best for them. Though not easy at all, I try not to compare my children to one another or to other kids their age. Rather focus on each child’s individual needs and strengths and support them in the way they need me to.
Becoming a mother is such a fulfilling and enriching experience that comes with its highs and lows. Each stage in our child’s life is another learning opportunity for both mother and child, so we can grow together. Bombol wishes all moms, mother figures, and moms-to-be a wonderful and relaxing Mother’s Day!
Stay Sparky
Let’s celebrate Earth Day
In a week’s time comes Earth Day! How are you going to celebrate it with your little ones this year? There are so many meaningfulactivities to do together as a family, but what interest me the most are always those involving crafts with recycled materials. Single-use items, such as plastic bags, water bottles, and straws, are major contributors to waste and pollution. Apart from using less of these polluting materials, we can also make more effort in reusing or up-cycling as much as possible. Here are a few ideas on crafts that are fun to do with the kids and you can turn scrap materials into useful objects again to give them a second life.
Make your own reusable bags
These are great alternatives to single-use ones when you go grocery shopping. There are so many different ways to make reusable bags for every occasion from easy produce bags for fruits and veggies to pillowcase bags for daily use. All you need are some old T-shirts or some fabric scraps, and it is a fun and easy project that the whole family can participate in.
Create a crocheted rug or doormat
Another great way to use those old T-shirts that your kids have outgrown or stained is to make a rug or two out of them!! What a great way to teach yourself (and your kids) the art of crochet, by a hook or by fingers! Get those little digits working and the little ones will feel so accomplished when they see the result of their hard work on display right at your doorstep.
Make Earth Day crayons
Wherever there are young children there will be half-used crayons! There are so many tutorials on the internet teaching you how to recycle remaining stubs of crayons that are too small to draw with or that your kids discard after a few uses. But this particular idea of making them into the likeness of our planet from emmaowl.com is a meaningful way to teach the kids about reusing and recycling their own toys on this special day dedicated to the Earth.
Papermaking with your used paper
What more can we do with paper that has already been used on both sides or scraps of craft paper left over from some creative projects of the kids? Let’s make recycled paper turning these scraps into a pulp and teach the kids about the art of papermaking. It is a lot of work and a delicate process, but the result is the beautiful hand-made paper that the children can use again to make more artwork from it!
Above are just a few artsy ideas to remind ourselves and our kids about the finite resources we have on our planet on Earth Day. As a family and society, our daily actions are still the best way to make a positive impact on the environment and a constant reminder to ourselves about the importance of sustainability. For more Earth Day activities that are planned in your city this year, check out this global map on the website of https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2023/. I am sure you will find a meaningful activity to join in your community no matter where you are. Let’s make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable future together.
Stay Sparky!
Embracing Diversity
In recent decades, global diversity has brought many biracial or multiracial families together, and my family is one of them. Having a Belgian father and a Chinese mother, our two daughters were exposed to two very different cultures from day 1. My husband and I want to make sure that they would grow up having both Western and Eastern cultures melting together in their daily lives. Hopefully, this way they can live in an environment that celebrates diversity and encourages them to embrace their rich ethnic backgrounds with confidence and ease.
Celebrate All Cultures
I do believe that one’s cultural heritage often lays the foundation of one’s moral code and values in life. Therefore, I think one of the most important things we need to teach our multiracial kids is to celebrate the various cultures of their families. This means learning about history and traditions and incorporating them into daily life. The easiest thing to start with is traditional celebrations and the food that is linked to them! Since we live in Hong Kong, we are so lucky that we celebrate both Chinese and Western festivals. We used these occasions to introduce our kids to traditional folklores and foods, be it rice dumplings during Dragon Boat Festivals, or the chocolate egg hunt orchestrated by the Easter Bunny. By embracing all aspects of your child’s background, you help them develop a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage.
Encourage Exploration and Observation
As our children get older, I encourage them to explore their identity and heritage. Living in Hong Kong expose them more to the Chinese culture in their daily experience. So, during extended holidays we would send them to Belgium to stay with their grandparents so that they can be fully immersed in the Belgian way of life too. They can improve on their Flemish language skills, visit the country where their paternal family is from, and learn about the historic background of their ancestry. By learning about both cultures in depth, the children can develop a deeper connection to their heritage and a stronger sense of self.
Address Racism and Discrimination
We are really lucky that we live in a relatively open-minded and international city that historically it is a place where East meets West. Mixed race families are not rare and there are so many schools and communities that embrace racial diversity. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, multiracial children may face discrimination or prejudice because of their background. For our girls, once they grow up and start venturing out on their own, they will face similar challenges too. It’s therefore important to address these issues head-on and teach our kids how to respond to them. This might involve discussing the history of racism and discrimination, as well as teaching them strategies for dealing with prejudice. Hopefully, we can help our children develop resilience and confidence in themselves.
Raising multiracial children can be challenging but rewarding. By celebrating diversity, teaching them about their identity, encouraging interest and curiosity about their heritage, and mentally preparing them for racism and discrimination, we can help our kids develop a strong sense of identity and resilience. Our older daughter always finds it amusing when asked “where she is from” and she would reply, “Do you want the short answer, or you have half an hour to spare for the long one?”
Stay Sparky!
The Milestone
Going from diapers to “big kid underwear” is one of the most important milestones for a child and the timing really depends on the individual development (both mentally and physically) of the kid. According to experts, a child could start potty training from around 18 months, some might need a bit longer, up to three years of age until they are developmentally ready. However, each child is different in terms of when they are physically and emotionally ready for potty training. Take my youngest daughter for instance, she was insisting to change her own diaper at the age of 15 months, and we’re not even using the pull-ups yet! Well, I guess I mistook her sense of independence as physical readiness to start potty training. She ended up sticking with the diapers until she was almost 4, yes, it was a long journey for all of us!
Lookout for the signs
When your baby reaches the above age range, I am sure you will see signs that they could be ready for potty training. They might be showing an interest in the potty, showing discomfort when they have a wet or soiled diaper, or wanting to wear underwear just like their older sibling. However, no matter how attractive the idea of not having to lug around the changing pads and extra diapers, if your child is resistant or not quite ready, don’t force it and maybe try again in a few months.
Once your child is ready, potty training can start in earnest! Here are some tips for potty training success:
Get the kid involved
Let them be involved with the whole process, from choosing their own little potty to shopping for their first pairs of underwear. Get them excited about taking this big step and own up to it!
Be consistent
There are suggestions for putting your baby on the potty at various times of the day, after meals, or before bedtime. I guess that really depends on the internal clock of the child. However, the key is to be consistent so that it becomes routine for them, even just for a couple of minutes.
Setbacks are normal
There is always a learning curve for every new skill, potty training is the same. Your baby might have doubts or a lack of confidence after a couple of little accidents. The last thing you want is the stress out your little one, so it is helpful to understand what the reasons for the setback could be.
Stay Vigilant
Be prepared to grab your kid and run for the potty at any waking moment! This is where your hyper-observant parent superpower comes in handy. Our first daughter used to show signs of bowel movement whenever she was relaxed, usually while sitting in her bouncer. So, whenever I saw that spaced-out look on her face I would be ready. And then when her face started to turn red, the sign of a “poopoo push”, I would pick her up and sprint to the potty in record time! With practice and consistency, hopefully, they will learn to associate the signs with the need to go to the bathroom.
Photo: @artsymamalife
Efficiency is key
Once your child has mastered their potty skills during the day, it is time to graduate to the last stage of the journey: night training! This next step may take additional time and patience for both parents and child. Unfortunately, there is no short cut and accidents are bound to happen. So, the most useful tip for this part is to speed up the sheet-changing process in the middle of the night to the minimum. Always put 2 layers of sheets and mattress protection: start with a mattress protector, then a sheet, another mattress protector, and another sheet on the top. This way when accidents do happen, you only need to strip away the first sheet and protector, change your baby out of the wet clothes, and everyone can go back to bed! See, no big deal! When your child sees that you are handling the accident with ease and calm, along with your encouragement, they will succeed at being potty trained at night with less stress.
With lots of love, consistency, patience, and positivity, your child can definitely succeed in the potty training challenge. While occasional accidents can be discouraging, your kid’s sense of accomplishment and independence will make the effort worthwhile. And, yay, you can finally say goodbye to the bulky diaper bag!
Stay Sparky!
Have your cake and eat it too
Remember the excitement of decorating your first home together with your partner? You put so much effort into creating a beautiful space that reflects your personal style, featuring memorabilia from holidays and heirloom furniture from grandparents. Then you have your first child, and you soon find your home dominated by bright plastic toys and furniture pieces, making your little nest look like a preschool rather than a home. But with some careful planning and creative ideas, designing your home to be both stylish and kid-friendly should not be an impossible task. The feature posts by Design Mom Gabrielle Blair, give great examples of how families with young kids can have gorgeous yet practical homes.
It’s all in the materials
For furnishings that you use every day that can withstand the daily abuse of being jumped on, spilled on, and sometimes even drawn on, durability is key. One of the great pieces of advice I came across is the importance of outdoor materials used for indoor furniture. With the advancement of technology, synthetic water-proof materials are now more sophisticated both in terms of texture and design. This way, your couch can actually be hosed down if necessary and can be more resistant to spills and stains! Consider using scratch-resistant flooring materials, like stained hardwood or tile for a stylish look, and they age well too! If you would like to place some kid’s furniture in the living room, go for neutral colors so they can blend in with the rest of the adult furniture around.
Think storage
It is unavoidable that along with kids come a lot of toys, crafts, books, and more. Without proper and clever storage solutions, your home will become cluttered before you know it. For example, colorful baskets are perfect for stuffed animals, or Grandma’s antique chest is both practical and visually appealing and can hide a good amount of craft materials. An Ottoman with built-in storage serves as a great toy box and a corner-free coffee table at the same time!
Play Corner
One of the best ways to make your home feel kid-friendly is to include a little play area in the common space so that the kiddos can call it their own. It doesn’t need to be big, just a little nook or corner where they can relax and express their creativity can go a long way. You can decorate it with art done by the kids, like a kind of showcase of their creative outputs, or place a cozy rug and a few cushions on the floor for their quiet time.
Photo: @happynomadsouls
There are still so many great ideas out there for designing a stylish and kid-friendly home, the key is to find the right balance between style and functionality. With a little creativity, a splash of humour, and some planning, it is possible to create a space that is both beautiful and safe for you and your children. So, go ahead and let your imagination run wild – the possibilities are endless!
Stay Sparky!
On a Time Crunch
More and more, I find myself feeling stressed because I don’t seem to be able to finish my planned tasks on time because of various distractions. Throughout the day I am rushing from left to right, buzzing around like a bee, yet, at the end of the day I got very little done! And when I try to enjoy my most treasured time with the kids in the evening, my mind keeps drifting off to the “unfinished business” that is haunting me like a ghost. I am sure many parents are facing the same challenge, so I tried to look for some hacks and tips on better time management for parents.
Break it all down
Those who work from home must be familiar with the challenge of juggling kids, house chores, and meal preps while trying to put in a few solid hours of video conferences and email correspondences. This article suggests several ways to segment bigger tasks into more manageable sizes, or sort tasks based on time requirements or urgency. But one helpful and easy tip I think can be effective is to minimize distractions from social media and the internet by keeping my browser closed while working. This can definitely help save some time for more important tasks so that I can cross off more from my to-do list and get to my kids sooner!
Beat that addiction
How many times has my phone pinged with notifications of alerts, emails, and text messages from the moment I wake up in the morning until I go to bed? Looking at my phone became the first and last thing I do every day, both times while in bed. We keep worrying about screen time for the kids, yet we, as adults, seem to be more addicted to our mobile devices than they are! Maybe I need some radical changes in my lifestyle to keep this phone addiction in check. A friend of mine recently told me that he actually only looks at his text messages at designated times during the day and he checks his emails only a few times a day. If anyone needs to reach him urgently, they can always pick up the phone and give him a call! Actually, this makes a lot of sense because I get distracted numerous times by incoming text messages (both personal and work-related) during the day, but I can perfectly reply to them an hour or two later, or I noticed a new email that just came in and dropped whatever I was doing to go check it.
Don’t be a perfectionist
As for the chores that need to be done around the house, we can also lower our standard by a few notches and go for some imperfections! 😉 Even the home-organizing guru, Marie Kondo, also recently admits that her home with 3 young kids is a mess! But to make life easier and a household that is simple to maintain, the key is to be organized. If everything has its own place in the home, it can be easily found and put away at all times, this way less effort is spent on searching and cleaning up. This is also a good way to cultivate good habits in your kids from a young age. Soon, you can delegate more to the little ones and they can help you with simple yet necessary chores such as putting away clean laundry or cleaning up their own rooms.
I think all these tips call for a certain degree of self-discipline and determination. But, hey, I would do anything to spend more quality time with the kiddos with my undivided attention.
