Tricks of the trade!

[Momof4]

I see a lot of people writing posts about crazy Monday kids. I've never had that problem because we go to our local library for storytime every Monday and that involves a long walk each way. We come home to lunch and the children have an extra long nap that day because they haven't napped properly on the weekend. So, go on an outing every Monday possible.

I also spend every single morning outside that is possible, sometimes even when it's raining lightly. There's nothing wrong with puddle jumping. I insist that parents leave splashpants here year round. I have drawstring bags that contain sunhats and sunglasses all summer and extra hats and mitts all winter so we are never without. I even ask if an extra pair of snowpants can be left here all winter. There should never be a reason to skip going outside.

My crockpot is my saviour! Or I'll make the meatloaf or casserole the night before so it's ready to pop into the oven. Puree spinach, cauliflower, onions, peppers and hid them in dishes like this.

I have circle time at lunch or snacktime because the children are in their booster chairs and captive audiences, lol.

I change the babies diapers and then call out "Potty time for big kids" so the toilet trainers head straight for the bathroom without any questions.

But most of all, always remember that freeplay is ok. What do children do no matter where they are? They PLAY! It's ok to let them play.