How To Get More Done With A Toddler

I was lucky to have children that were typically quiet, calm and easily entertained. However, that all changed when I had my youngest baby girl. To say that she’s a ball of energy would be an understatement. The girl is constantly on the go and doesn’t take breaks unless it’s time to sleep. I find that now that I’m working from home and homeschooling with a toddler in tow, I have to get creative in order to be productive throughout the day.

Today I’m sharing some of my favorite tips for getting more done with a toddler at home. These are just simple things that I’ve done, and have worked for me in this busy season.

How To Get More Done With A Toddler

Work while they sleep

This is how I get the bulk of my work done. I wake up before everyone else in the house and plow away at my to-do list. Typically, I get a lot of my writing done during this time. I answer emails and pretty much work on anything that requires me to focus. I also take advantage of nap times or work at night when the kids are in bed.

Include them

During the day it’s when the fun begins. I feel like I’m constantly chasing after my toddler to make sure she doesn’t get hurt or redecorating the house. 🙂 So when it’s time to fold laundry or dust the furniture, I keep her busy by including her. She has a duster that she carries around to “help mommy” clean. She also stays busy by pulling out the clothes from the laundry basket while I sort and fold. It keeps her busy while I’m productive. Win-win.

Accept Help

I must admit that this one was hard for me. I have a Type-A personality and it’s difficult for me to give up control or allow others to do things for me. However, I knew that by trying to do everything on my own, I was only doing myself and my family a disservice. I simply couldn’t keep up or I would be too exhausted from trying to do it all. Now my oldest helps me juggle some of the household chores and I’ve accepted my mom’s offer to watch my little one for me once a week. It truly has made things much easier for me.

Keep it simple

Don’t make your to-do list super complicated. There are basics that I like to keep up with everyday; laundry, dishes, meals, work and one household task. These are my non-negotiables for each day (except Sunday). However, if something doesn’t get done it’s not the end of the world. I find that focusing on a few things rather than trying to juggle several each day, helps me stay focused and eases my work load.

Play with your child

You’re probably wondering how this is going to help you get more done. It’s actually quite simple; you’re toddler simply wants attention from you, so give it to them. Play with them, dance with them, and engage with them in their silly games. This time is so precious and short, that nothing else should be more important. I also find that when I spend time with my baby girl, she won’t have a fit when I do need to do something else that doesn’t involve her.

Give yourself grace

There are days when laundry stays in the dryer, we order take-out and I find myself up late at night trying to meet a project deadline. Don’t beat yourself up over the things you didn’t or couldn’t get done. Focus on the positives, you kept your kids clean, fed and loved on. That’s truly all they need from you.

At the end of the day, remember that family always comes first. Don’t beat yourself up if your home is not spotless or the dishes are still sitting in the sink. Your kids won’t care nor remember. However, a mom that showed them love and attention will stay with them forever.

How do you juggle your home and responsibilities with a toddler? I would love to hear your thoughts and tips!