**5 Essential Positive Parenting Skills to Get Your Kids Out the Door in the Morning Calmly and Confidently**
**Table of Contents**
Mornings have typically been a challenge for our family. To be honest, I’m not a morning person. In the early hours, I’m more like someone you shouldn’t disturb—otherwise, watch out! But I’m working on it.
Because I’m not at my best in the mornings, it’s been quite a task to ensure the kids leave the house in a positive mood. I also think part of the morning chaos comes from my kids’ young minds that aren’t fully developed to handle transitions smoothly. Kids often resist moving from something they enjoy, like playing or sleeping, to something they have to do, which isn’t fun for any of us.
After years of rushed, stressful mornings and arriving at school in a frenzy, I decided it was time for a change. I realized I’d been doing too much for my kids and stressing myself out while depriving them of chances to learn independence and responsibility. So, we went back to basics.
We often assume our kids understand life’s routines, but they need clear instructions. Just like we adults get overwhelmed and forget tasks, kids need consistent reminders about what they need to do each morning. So, go over the morning routine in detail with them and encourage questions. Make sure to clarify everything, leaving no room for confusion.
I’ve heard this advice countless times, but this year, we finally put it into practice, and it’s the best strategy to avoid morning shouting. For instance, choosing a week’s worth of outfits on Sunday nights greatly reduces stress. Our kids select their clothes for the week and place them in a designated drawer—easy to grab each day.
We also started having our kids prepare their own lunches on Sunday nights, a change I wish we’d made sooner. They enjoy it, and it takes a load off my shoulders each morning. We’re set for the whole week!
Children thrive on consistency and predictability, so keeping the same routine every morning helps them manage their time and space better. Once they know the flow, they can complete tasks with less effort as their brain adjusts to the routine.
In the mornings, I don’t really run up the stairs listening to the Rocky theme song with espresso shots, but mornings can seem like a marathon. It’s easy to slip into “drill sergeant” mode, but starting with some mindful connection makes mornings smoother.
Parents often forget that nighttime is a long separation from their child. A few minutes spent reconnecting, whether it’s sitting with them at breakfast or lying beside them for a bit, can help them accept guidance through the morning.
As a child therapist, I often recommend using visuals for kids struggling with routines. Visual aids make information more concrete and digestible for them than auditory instructions. Visuals can help automate daily tasks.
Visual timers are another great tool. We use them on the bathroom and kitchen counters to help the kids see and manage their time, holding them accountable.
Lately, our mornings have vastly improved. My kids appreciate not being nagged, and I approach them warmly, which makes a huge difference. They still need occasional prompts, but I’m confident that with time, they’ll become more self-sufficient, giving me a bit more coffee time!
Aside from teaching independence, the best part of new morning habits is sending the kids to school feeling positive and ready for the day.
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