Being a parent is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it can also be overwhelming. There’s no one way to be a parent, but there are a lot of tips and tricks that can make the journey easier. Whether it’s dealing with tantrums or navigating the teenage years- there’s always something new to learn. Here are our best parenting hacks for every age.

Baby (0-12 months) 🍼

Always Have a Spare Change of Clothes

There’s nothing worse than being out in public and realizing that your baby has had a blowout. Always have a spare change of clothes in your bag- for both you and the baby.

A baby onesie and a small pouch of baby wipes

Use a Baby Carrier

Babies love to be close to their parents and a baby carrier is a great way to bond with your little one. It also frees up your hands to do other things.

A parent wearing a baby carrier while grocery shopping

White Noise

White noise machines or apps can help your little one fall asleep and stay asleep. It’s also great for drowning out any outside noise.

A picture of a white noise machine with a sleeping baby in the background

Toddler (1-3 years old) 🚸

Keep Snacks and Drinks Handy

Toddlers are always on the move and they get hungry and thirsty quickly. Keep snacks and drinks handy- in your bag or in the car- to avoid tantrums.

A picture of a child holding a sippy cup and a small snack bag

Make a Busy Bag

A busy bag is a bag with small activities to keep your child entertained. It can be anything from coloring books to small toys. It’s great for long car rides or waiting rooms.

A child playing with a small toy from a busy bag

Don’t Forget Sunscreen

Toddlers love to be outside but their delicate skin needs protection from the sun. Always apply sunscreen before going outside and reapply every two hours.

A picture of a child wearing a hat and sunscreen at the beach

Preschooler (3-5 years old) 🎒

Use a Kid-Friendly Calendar

A visual calendar with pictures or stickers can help your preschooler understand their weekly schedule. It’s a great way to teach them about time management and routine.

An example of a colorful visual calendar with pictures

Make Chores Fun

Preschoolers can start helping with simple chores like picking up toys or putting dishes away. Make it fun by turning it into a game or playing music.

A picture of a child helping to sweep the floor with a small broom

Encourage Independence

Preschoolers love to do things on their own. Encourage independence by letting them dress themselves or pour their own drinks (with supervision, of course).

A child pouring their own drink with a parent supervising

School Age (6-12 years old) 🎓

Set a Homework Schedule

A consistent homework schedule can help your child manage their workload and avoid procrastination. It’s also a great way to teach them responsibility.

A picture of a child doing homework at a desk

Teach Time Management

School-age children have a lot going on- from sports practice to playdates. Teach them time management skills by using a planner or visual schedule.

A picture of a child using a planner to organize their activities

Encourage Reading

Reading is an important skill for academic success. Encourage your child to read by setting aside time for silent reading or going to the library regularly.

A picture of a child reading a book with a parent nearby

Teenager (13-18 years old) 📱

Set Tech Boundaries

Teenagers love their phones and social media. Set boundaries by limiting screen time and having tech-free zones (like the dinner table).

A picture of a parent and teenage child having a conversation without phones

Encourage Healthy Habits

Teach your teenager about the importance of exercise and healthy eating. It’s a great way to promote self-care and prevent health problems in the future.

A picture of a teenager exercising with a parent or friend nearby

Talk About Mental Health

Teenagers go through a lot of changes- both physically and mentally. Talk to them about mental health and encourage them to seek help if they need it.

A picture of a parent and teenager having a conversation about mental health

Conclusion 🎉

Being a parent is a journey full of ups and downs. These parenting hacks can make the journey a little easier. Remember that there’s no one way to be a parent and everyone has their own unique style. Choose what works best for you and your family.

A picture of a smiling family walking together