Let’s be honest—some mornings feel like a mad dash to the finish line with one shoe on and a half-eaten banana in hand. Between packing lunch boxes, finding that school hat, and convincing small humans to put on actual pants, parenting can feel like a full-blown sprint before 8 am. If that sounds like your daily vibe, you’re not alone.
At Coastal Babysitters, we’ve worked with hundreds of families and seen firsthand the power of a good routine—not just for the kids, but for the sanity of the parents too. Because when kids know what to expect, things run a whole lot smoother (and quieter).
Here are 7 simple, realistic routine hacks that actually work—and won’t have you pulling your hair out.
1. Start with a Simple Morning Routine
Mornings set the tone for the entire day. A smooth start = a smoother school run, fewer meltdowns, and more time for you to breathe. Keep the routine predictable and age-appropriate.
A calm morning flow might look like this:
- Wake up gently (skip the loud alarms if you can)
- Brush teeth & wash face
- Get dressed (no last-minute wardrobe changes)
- Eat brekkie
- Pack school bag (yes, including the library book and hat)
- Out the door
“We started using a visual checklist for mornings. It’s stuck to the fridge and the kids tick things off themselves. Total game-changer!” – Sarah, mum of two
2. Add Fun to Transitions
Let’s face it—kids aren’t exactly keen on dropping the iPad to brush their teeth. That’s where a little playfulness goes a long way. Try a ‘clean-up dance party’ to get ready for bed, a silly “robot voice” to announce snack time, or a superhero race to get into PJs. Transitions don’t have to be battles. They can be games.
3. Keep Meal & Snack Times Predictable
Hungry kids = grumpy kids (and stressed parents). A predictable meal schedule keeps energy levels steady and meltdowns at bay.
Try this simple structure:
- Morning snack around 10am
- Lunch at 12pm
- Afternoon snack around 3pm
- Dinner around 6pm
Bonus: Routine mealtimes support healthy eating habits too.
4. Balance Screen Time with Play
We get it—screens are easy. And sometimes, necessary. But instead of banning them, build screen time into the routine so it’s part of the plan—not a constant negotiation.
Try setting a daily screen time window (e.g. 4:00–5:00pm), balancing it with outdoor play, drawing, or reading, and encouraging independent play (even if it means mess—playdough is worth it).
5. Create a Calm Evening Routine
The bedtime battle is real. But a calming routine helps kids wind down and makes things a little less chaotic.
Try this:
- Bath or shower
- Pyjamas + teeth
- Books or quiet time
- Snuggles + lights out
“We used to struggle every night. Now my daughter knows what comes next and bedtime is so much easier.” – Jess, mum of three
Tip: Keep the energy low, the lights dim, and your voice soft—kids mimic your energy.
6. Make It Visual (and Let Kids Help!)
A picture-based checklist or visual routine chart can do wonders—especially for younger kids. It gives them a sense of independence and reduces the need to constantly remind them what’s next.
Let them help design their routine chart, tick off tasks as they go, and choose a reward at the end of a smooth day (like a sticker or extra story).
Quick tip: Laminate it and use a whiteboard marker for easy resets.
7. Keep It Real (and Flexible)
Not every day will go to plan—and that’s okay. Life happens. Some days will be chaotic, toast will be shaped like dinosaurs, and bedtime might be an hour late. The key is flexibility, not perfection.
The goal? Consistency that works for your family—not a Pinterest-perfect schedule.
You Don’t Have to Do It All
At Coastal Babysitters, we know how important routines are for kids—but we also know how exhausting it is trying to manage it all alone.
Our trusted, experienced babysitters follow your routines, come prepared with fun activities, and make transitions smooth and safe. Whether you need a few hours to yourself or help during a wedding or event, we’re here to support you and your little ones.
Because every parent deserves a break—and every child deserves a day filled with fun, connection, and calm.
Need a helping hand? Book a babysitter you can trust now – and take a breather, mama. You’ve earned it.
Orly x
