For many of us, spring time usually brings loads of sports. Whether it be soccer, baseball, or softball, we spend a lot of time around ball fields. As parents, that can cause a lot of stress, disorganization, and not-so-smart choices. I've compiled a few ways to make it easier and stress-free!
-First off, get your ball player included, If he/she is old enough to play team sports then they are old enough to help out. Hang a chart at their level so they can see when practices and games are. Have them lay out their uniform each night before bed. Make them a checklist of gear they need to make sure to bring to each game.
-If you have a toddler be sure to keep a stocked diaper bag always ready. Have plenty of diapers, wipes, snacks, sunscreen, and a water bottle. An hour long practice or 2 hour game can be too long for a toddler's attention span. Take a walk around the park, blow bubbles, or color with crayons to help keep them busy.
-Now is a good time to start cooking several meals on weekends. They can be reheated easily during the week in minimal time. None of us want to eat Happy Meals everyday, a little prep work can get us healthy meals on the table. If you are home during the day, go ahead and cook your entree. Cover it and stick it in the fridge ready to be heated back up in a few hours before or after practice. A sandwich and soup night is an inexpensive way to have a quick dinner. If you work all day, put your crock-pot to use. Dinner is ready when you are home. Add a salad or side and you're done!
-A lot of fields have playgrounds close by. Please keep an eye on your older kids. Sadly playgrounds that are just 20ft away are not always safe. (Even if as kids we were gone all day, roaming the neighborhood.) Make sure to have a talk with your children about strangers and what to do if they are approached. No one wants to think about it happening, but we as parents need be prepared.
-And last but not least, always apply ample sunscreen when outside. It's messy, sticky, and expensive, but it is needed. The sun can be a dangerous enemy to our skin, let's do our step to prevent any damage from it. Don't forget about ears, lips and feet, they get burnt too! Be wary of the aerosol spray sunscreens, the FDA does not feel they protect adequately.
Spring time is my favorite time of year. It also goes by quickly for me because I have 3 sons in baseball and a preschooler. I'm going to follow my own advice this year and try to make it stress-free.
