How to Simplify Parenting When You Have a Full-Time Job

Parenting can be difficult at the best of times. So, when coupled with a full-time job, it can be somewhat of a juggling act. If you are in this situation and are finding it a little overwhelming, it’s worth considering ways to lighten the load a little and make it a lot easier to manage.

If you aren’t sure where to start, then keep reading. We’ve put together four time-saving tips for busy working parents, which should alleviate some of the issues and make your juggling act a little easier.

Meal planning makes parenting easier

If part of your day involves dashing out to the grocery store to grab something edible for dinner that evening, you need to try and be a little more organized.

Instead, spend an hour each week planning what you will eat for the next week and then head to the store for what you need. Not only will meal planning save you time, but as you won’t be tempted to grab ready meals as frequently as you perhaps used to, you will probably eat a lot healthier too.

Get help cleaning

Cleaning and tidying up can seem like a never-ending chore – particularly when you have children. If your kids are of an age where they can help you rather than be more of a hindrance, allocate tasks such as making beds, tidying away toys, etc.

When things like your carpets or upholstery need a bit of TLC, call on cleaning professionals rather than trying to tackle it yourself. Paying someone else to do it will save you lots of hassle and stress, and the results will probably be better than anything you could achieve.

Bulk cooking and buying

Cooking in bulk is a fabulous way to save time each week. One-pot meals like spaghetti Bolognese, chili, and curries are perfect, so spend an afternoon or an evening each week making batches of each. Once prepared, label and store in the freezer, ready to cook whenever you need something quick but delicious.

If you have adequate space in your basement or garage, bulk buying is another time-saving solution. It will reduce the number of trips you need to make to the grocery store and could save you lots of money at the same time.

Prepare school lunches the night before

Mornings can be a nightmare at the best of times and, if you have school lunches to prepare, it can be even worse. So, instead of running around and feeling stressed every morning, prepare what you can in advance.

Fruit, crisps, and other non-perishables can be put in lunch boxes the night before, and if you are really pushed for time, you could always make sandwiches and keep them in the fridge overnight. It is, of course, better to make them fresh, but now and again won’t hurt.

The more prepared you are, the easier your life will be, so implementing any changes you feel might be beneficial should make each day a lot less stressful.

Can you share any tips for balancing work and motherhood with us?