Life with two little ones under three is beautiful—and exhausting. Some days feel like a blur of diapers, snacks, and bedtime routines. Here are the small hacks that keep me sane:
1. Bath time starts with the older one
Bathing both kids at once sounds efficient…until it’s pure chaos. I’ve learned it’s easier to start with my toddler. While the older one is splashing, I can keep the baby close by in a safe spot. Then I do a quick switch. It keeps things calmer and prevents meltdowns.
2. Naps = survival strategy
When my spouse is home and watching the kids, I use that time to actually rest. Even a short 20-minute nap resets me. The dishes can wait—rest can’t.
3. Keep the diaper bag packed
The diaper bag is my lifeline. Instead of repacking each outing, I restock wipes, diapers, snacks, and a change of clothes after each trip. Grab-and-go mornings are stress-free when it’s always ready.
4. Lay out outfits the night before
Evenings are calmer, which makes it the perfect time to prep. I lay out each child’s outfit (clothes, socks, shoes, hair accessories) for the next day. This removes one potential meltdown from morning chaos.
5. Arrange weekly outfits
On weekends, I plan the kids’ outfits for the entire week. Knowing what they’ll wear each day reduces daily decision fatigue and keeps mornings smooth.
6. Unfolded clothes in drawers
I don’t fold every piece. Instead, I sort clothes by type into each child’s dresser drawer—shirts in one, pants in another, pajamas separate. Each child has their own dresser, so morning outfit selection is fast and stress-free.
7. Lower the bar on “perfect”
Two under three means the house won’t always be spotless, laundry piles up, and sometimes dinner is whatever’s quickest. Keeping everyone fed, safe, and loved is enough.
8. Celebrate small wins
Getting both kids dressed before 10 a.m.? Victory. Completing a grocery run without tears? Major success. Noticing these wins helps me survive the long days.
9. Weekends = morning outings
If we’re going to the park or running errands as a family, mornings are golden. Kids have more energy, it’s less crowded, and meltdowns are fewer. By evening, everyone’s patience is low.
