SummerBrightSmiles

centerpiece, games, and favors. They also got deeply discounted “mistake paint” for a quarter of the price (around $9 instead of $40) that people returned because they didn’t like the color from Home Depot and Lowe’s.

Potential Savings: $25-$50 by not purchasing cardboard boxes, games and favors also savings from purchasing mistake paint which can be used for crafts, games or painting the cardboard centerpieces.

Using Coupons and Purchasing Sale Items

They purchase some of the items at Michael’s and other craft stores using coupons. They also use coupons at the grocery store to buy the food for the party. Coupons can be found at the store’s website or app or by signing up for the store’s emails. Also coupons can be found at online coupon website like Coupons.com.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 by using coupons and purchasing sale items.

Selling on Craigslist or Marketplace

After the last party, they sold some games they made for $30. They plan to do this for future parties.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 depending on the items created and sold. You could also sell your household items prior to the event to help fund it.

Who’s Ready to Party?

These parties are a lot of work, but the whole family loves creating a memorable event. I know that we are anxiously awaiting the next unicorn party. Who knows maybe we will even spy a real one?

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

Cakes & Treats

Baskin-Robbins

205 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze

Custom ice cream cakes. Online ordering available.

850-934-6958 www.facebook.com/ GulfBreezeBaskinRobbins

Bubba’s Sweet Spot

412 South Palafox Street, Pensacola

A candy store and ice cream parlor in Downtown Pensacola. Offering caramel, fudge and chocolate treats!

850-332-6696 bubbasweetspot.com

Cakes & More by Alicia Milton

Sweet treats for all occasions. Specialty cakes, cupcakes, gourmet cookies, cookie baskets, custom designed sugar cookies and cake pops. Themed cookies make great party favors! By appointment only.

850-319-8180 cakesandmorebyalicia.com

Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Café’

236 West Garden Street, Pensacola

Special occasion cheesecakes for birthdays, weddings, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries and more!

850-438-5650 www.chrisoulascheesecakeshoppe.com

Crumbl Cookies

1670 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola

Crumbl has the best cookies in the world! Our unique flavors rotate each week and catering flavors available! Order for delivery, curbside pickup, catering & nationwide shipping.

850-905-6414 www.crumblcookies.com/pensacola

Ever’man

1000 E Nine Mile Road, Pensacola

850-316-3700

315 W Garden Street, Pensacola

850-438-0402

At Ever’man we offer great party desserts with great ingredients. Our wide selection of cookies, cakes, pies, AND MORE will have you coming back for every occasion. www.everman.org

Great American Cookie Company

5100 North 9th Ave (Cordova Mall), Pensacola

We offer the finest fresh-baked products for every celebration. We offer online ordering also available!

850-478-2200 www.greatamericancookies.com

J’s Bakery & Cafe

2014 North 12th Avenue, Pensacola

Adorable custom cakes, cupcakes, pastries and other delicious treats are available at J’s. Check out J’s Pastry on Facebook to view samples of a few delicious creations.

850-439-6546 www.jsbakeryandcafe.com

Marble Slab

5405 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola

Celebrate a birthday with an ice cream cake.

850-478-4547 www.marbleslab.com

Sherry’s Cake Shop

510 Massachusetts Avenue, Pensacola

Offering custom design cakes, cookies and more. Visit us on Facebook!

850-433-4208 www.sherryscakeshop.com

Smallcakes of Pensacola

5046 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola

Gourmet cupcakes, homemade ice cream, custom cakes and more. Smallcakes: A Cupcakery, as seen on the Food Network and Cupcake Wars. 850-332-5245 www.smallcakescupcakery.com

Sweet Creations by Sharon

My unique, artistic designs will provide a sweet addition to your special day.

850-341-6674 www.sweetcreationsbysharon.com

Szotski’s Cheesecakes

2600 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola

We offer the largest selection of Cheesecake flavors in Pensacola.

850-466-3477 www.szotskis-cheesecakes.com

Entertainment to You

A DJ Connection

10311 Chemstrand Road, Pensacola

Enjoy the finest entertainment, crowd games, music, lighting, audio and video with over 50,000 songs!

850-968-1968 www.adjconnection.com

Animal Tales, LLC

Pensacola and surrounding areas

Make your next event one to remember by inviting live educational animal ambassadors. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire!

570-428-4259 www.AnimalEdZoocation.com

Crazy Acres Ranch

3030 Highway 90, Molino

Pony parties for birthdays, churches, scouts and family reunions. Trail rides, lessons & camps.

850-206-8113 facebook.com/CrazyAcres

Ranch

Iron Horse Stables

11 Eden Lane, Cantonment

Horseback riding in Northwest Florida offering pony parties, summer camps, riding lessons, and boarding.

850-982-0954 www.iron-horse-stables.com

La Maison of Cards - Magic School

Looking for an enchanting birthday experience?

Look no further than La Maison of Cards - Pensacola’s First Magic School. Be prepared for mind-blowing shows and awesome magic lessons that’ll leave your kids spellbound. Don’t miss out on the ultimate magical celebration – book your spot today!

850-501-7692 www.lamaisonofcards.com

Neighborhood Children’s Theatre

Bring us to your neighborhood! Theatre, music, dance, or yoga classes can be themed to any birthday party or private event. Ages 2-99! Call for further details.

857-220-8589 www.myneighborhoodtheatre.com

Nonie’s Ark Animal Encounters

Party Animals For Hire!!! A fun hands-on learning adventure featuring small exotic animals for birthdays! Nonie can also hostess your birthday party with decorations, games, prizes, and the cake!

850-862-9588 www.noniesark.com

Pensacola Photo Booth

10311 Chemstrand Road, Pensacola

Visit our website to check availability and reserve a photo booth for your event.

850-968-1968 www.pensacolaphotobooth.com

Radiant Face and Body Art

At Radiant Face and Body Art we provide professional face painting, balloon artists, and other awesome entertainment for your next party, or event! We specialize in creating smiles and memories that last a lifetime!

850-366-2249 www.facebook.com/RadiantFaceandBodyArt/

Reno’s Reptiles

Pensacola

Reptile shows for birthday parties, scouts, picnics, church groups, charity events, daycares, and even for some local schools. Choose from a variety of reptiles for your event.

850-393-3004 www.renosreptiles.com

Kona Ice

Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. We call it the Kona Entertainment Vehicle, because well...that’s what it is - a party on wheels!

850-262-8100 www.kona-ice.com/local-site/ kona-ice-of-gulf-breeze-and-greater-pensacola

Places to Party

Clash eSports & VR Experience

ad on page 19

101-G North OWA Boulevard , Foley

Offering Virtual Reality, PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch gaming plus a private game room for groups! Play your favorite games and the newest games, on the market’s fastest equipment.

251-257-1400 info@ClashOWA.com www.clashesportsowa.com

Cordova Lanes ad on page 27

2111 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola Birthday party-$150.00 for two lanes, $50.00 for additional lanes, plus tax. Reservations required.

850-477-2300 info@cordovalanes.com www.cordovalanes.com

LaBelle Performing Arts

ad on page 14

8253 Chellie Road, Pensacola

Let LaBelle take the worry out of planning your child’s birthday party! We are proud to offer child friendly themes, a carefully planned itinerary, engaging & varied activities! Call LaBelle Performing Arts today!

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Laguna’s ad on page 23

460 Pensacola Beach Boulevard, Pensacola

Celebrate a birthday or host a group outing at Pen- sacola Beach’s most family-friendly venue. Unique attractions, fun for all ages and GREAT FOOD. Inquire about your private event online today.

850-677-3905 www.lagunaspensacolabeach.com

OWA Theater

ad on page 19

205 N OWA Blvd, Foley One Venue. Countless entertainment options. Or, rent the entire venue for your own event! This 430+ seat theater is perfect for any occasion. 251-369-6100 Theater@VisitOWA.com

Pensacola Cooks Kitchen ad on page 8

4051 Barrancas Avenue, Suite C, Pensacola

A PCKids’ birthday cooking party is a fun-filled, incredible edible “edutaining” culinary experience full of hands-on activities for budding chefs! Choose from over 10 menu themes available. Food sensitive menu options (gluten, lactose, nut, and sugar free) available. Parties for children 616 years.

850-456-0743 www.pensacolacooks.com

Pensacola Parks and Recreation ad on Inside Back Cover

The City of Pensacola offers a variety of facilities for private and public events. Visit Facility Rentals on our website to learn more about Community Maritime Park, Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, Osceola Golf Course, Roger Scott Tennis Center, Resource Centers & Park Shelter Reservations, Event Permitting & Park Rentals.

850-436-5670 www.playpensacola.com

Splash City ad on page 13

6709 Pensacola Boulevard, Pensacola

We offer some of the best parties in the Pensacola area! Your party guests will go crazy over the water slides, amusement attractions, go-karts, and more. Many different party packages, visit us online to see all the options.

850-505-0800 www.splashcityadventures.com

Tropic Falls OWA

ad on page 19

1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Tropic Falls at OWA includes a ride-focused theme park, all-new indoor water park with a convertible roof, and outdoor wave pool and surf simulator—all just minutes from Alabama beaches on the Foley Beach Express. See the OWA website for seasonal hours, special offers and events!

251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com

Alligator Alley

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale

Give your child a birthday party they’ll never forget! After your adventure along the boardwalk, have your two hour party in the air conditioned sunroom, where everyone can hold a baby alligator.

251-946-2483 www.gatoralleyfarm.com

AMC Bayou 15

5149 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola

Visit the AMC theatre location nearest you online to view current and upcoming movie showtimes and event options. www.amctheatres.com

AMC Classic Pensacola 18

6595 North “W” Street, Pensacola

Visit the AMC theatre location nearest you online to view current and upcoming movie showtimes and events. www.amctheatres.com

Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site

5709 Mill Pond Lane, Milton

Birthday parties include private Treetop Classroom use. Explore our museum and grounds, and celebrate with Arcadia Mill! Visit https://historicpensacola.org/explore-arcadia-mill/venue-rentals/ for more information.

850-626-3084 www.historicpensacola.org/ explore-arcadia-mill

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

165 E Intendencia St, Pensacola

Pool party reservations are available to members and community participants. Your party includes swim time and access to our party room/multipurpose room and locker rooms, plus a dedicated staff person to ensure everyone has a safe and fun experience.

850-438-4406 ymcanwfl.org

Blue Wahoos

351 West Cedar Street, Pensacola

Knock it out of the park by throwing a Blue Wahoos birthday celebration! Packages include a message on video board, visit from the Blue Wa- hoos mascot, a Wahoos souvenir, ballpark meal, group seating for the game, and more.

850-934-8444 www.bluewahoos.com

Bounce House Pensacola

6241 North Davis Highway (Suite D), Pensacola

Bounce houses, slides, sports games, video games, toddler area and private party room. Bounce House of Pensacola has fun filled party packages!

850-417-4692 www.bouncehousepensacola.com

Breeze Cinema 8

1233 Crane Cove Boulevard, Gulf Breeze

We offer birthday parties for children. Parties include: currently showing movie of your choice, child’s concession pack (popcorn, drink, candy), use of party area and a special surprise for the birthday child.

850-934-3315 www.movieshowtime.net/theaterlocations.html

Chuck E. Cheese

7350 Plantation Road, Pensacola

Family-friendly entertainment, kids birthday parties, pizza, and arcade games.

850-476-7724 www.chuckecheese.com

Code Ninjas

3 W. 9 Mile Rd Suite #5, Pensacola

Come join us for STEM-TASTIC Party. We offer 2 ½ hour gaming or STEM focused parties for kids aged 5+ We provide the fun and you just bring the kids!

850-889-8636 www.codeninjas.com/fl-pensacola

Colbert‘s Martial Art Academy

8628 Pensacola Blvd., Pensacola

Specialized martial art classes for preschool aged children, adolescents, teens and adults. My 2500 sq. ft. facility partners with LizzieWorld Events to sponsor children and adult parties, family reunions, weddings, receptions and other social gatherings.

850-476-1188 www.calvincolbert.com

DeLuna Lanes

590 East 9 Mile Road, Pensacola

Pizza, cake, bowling, friends, fun! DeLuna Lanes offers parties for all occasions. Call or visit our website for party options and reservations.

850-478-9522 www.delunalanes.com

Dreamland Skate Center

2607 East Olive Road, Pensacola

Dreamland offers great packages for public or private parties for all ages. Check out our Birthday Party Information Page to see the selection of Party Packages we offer.

850-478-3994 www.myskatecenter.com/welcome-to-dreamland

Ellen’s Art

1265 Oriole Beach Road, Gulf Breeze

Make this a party to remember with our special Art Parties. Each party includes art instruction as you create a wonderful project together, followed by time for refreshments, etc.

850-934-8538 www.ellens-art.com

Emerald Coast Science Center

31 Memorial Parkway Southwest, Fort Walton

We’re positive the best birthday parties are a science. We offer 3 different themes for birthday party packages on Saturdays from 10:30am12:30pm or 1:30pm - 3:30pm.

850-664-1261 www.ecscience.org

Emerald Coast Zoo

5262 Deer Springs Drive, Crestview

We offer a great party package to make your child’s day special with an animal encounter, feed bags for the petting zoo, and reserved tables in our shaded oak grove.

850-682-3949 www.emeraldcoastzoo.com

Falbo’s Family Karate

3031 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze

2 hour parties for ages 5 & up. Games, board breaking, & Karate. Open presents on a throne and cut your cake with a Samurai Sword.

850-934-7977 www.falbosfamilykarate.com

Fast Eddie’s Fun Center

505 West Michigan Avenue, Pensacola

Fast Eddies provides a variety of party packages with entertainment options like go-karts, putt-putt, batting cages, arcade games and more! Visit our website to view Party Packages for one of our Private Party Rooms.

850-433-7735 www.fasteddiesfuncenter.com

Five Star Dance

5636 Woodbine Road, Pace

Five Star Dance Centre is now available to rent for a variety of events, including birthday parties.

850-748-2383 info@fivestardancecentre.com www.fivestardancecentre.com

Flippin Out

4062 Avalon Boulevard, Milton

Let us do the work! We set up, serve refreshments, and do the clean up for you! Parties include 1 hour of gymnastics activities, and 30 minutes of party time.

850-983-1410 flippinoutgym.com/birthday-parties

FunPlex of Gulf Breeze

3123 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze

Gymnastics parties, bounce parties, combination of gym and bounce, nerf parties and more.

850-932-2297 www.the-funplex.com

Gulf Breeze Community Center

800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze

Reservations are available online for several indoor areas as well as parks, tennis courts, pavilions, splash pad, gymnasiums, meeting rooms and more.

850-934-5140 gulfbreezeparksandrecreation.com

Gulf Breeze Zoo

5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze

Celebrate your kid’s birthday or host an event at Gulf Breeze Zoo, the WILDEST place in town! Party packages online. Use our online form to reach us or call to book today!

850-932-2229 www.gbzoo.com

Gulfarium

1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach

Have a splash-tastic day at the Gulfarium with your friends and family and enjoy lunch “under the sea” surrounded by beautiful tropical fish in our Living Sea event room. Please contact the Gulfarium for details.

850-243-9046 www.gulfarium.com

In His Steps Dance Studio

6231 North “W” Street (Suite 5), Pensacola

Please call for party information and reservations. 850-474-4922 www.inhisstepsinc.com

Martial Arts America

2258 Hwy 87 South, Navarre

850-939-9700

4050 Avalon Boulevard, Milton

850-983-0870

3921 Hwy 90, Pace

850-995-4191

A Karate Party is a fun and different way to celebrate a birthday. Call to schedule your party. www.ourkarate.com

Ninja Life

1211 Rainbow Ave, Pensacola

A Ninja Life birthday party is a great way to experience ninja warrior obstacles. Each party includes 1 hour in the gym. After gym time, we make our way into the party room for 45 minutes of Cake, Presents, and FUN!

850-466-3289 www.ninja-life.com

Oops Alley

3721 Highway 90, Pace

Whether it’s a birthday or a sports team think outside the box for your party. We have an easy, affordable & stress free way to have your party!

850-995-9393 www.oopsalley.com

Pensacola ATA

6247 North Davis Highway, Pensacola

In between all the fun games and activities, we also teach the kids some really cool martial arts moves. 850-791-6777 www.kickwithata.com/about-us/ pensacola-ata

Pensacola Children’s Museum

115 East Zaragoza Street, Pensacola

You provide the cake, decorations, invitations. We provide the fun! All private birthday parties include exclusive use of Party Central Room and admission to the museum for all party guests

850-595-1559 www.historicpensacola.org

Pensacola Kids’ Place

3 West 9 Mile Road Suite 4, Pensacola

A clean, fun, safe indoor play zone for children crawling to 8 years old. Tunnels, slides, ball pit, educational toys and more. Private parties Available. 850-332-5085 www.facebook.com/pensacola kidsplace

Pensacola MESS Hall

418 E Wright St, Pensacola

A birthday party at the MESS Hall is a fun and educational event. Up to 20 kids become scientists as they explore the museum!

877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org

Pinspiration

6601 North Davis Highway Suite 5, Pensacola

An all-in-1 DIY Craft Studio based in Pensacola, FL! Splatter Room, Birthday Parties, Camps & more. 850-857-8418 www.pinspiration.com/locations/ pensacola/

Salute Gymnastics Academy

9326 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola

Private parties for kids of all ages! Packages also available to churches, businesses, schools, etc. Please call for reservations.

850-969-9111 salute gymnasticsacademy.com

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

5007 North Davis Highway (Unit 8a), Pensacola

Party options and booking available online.

850-378-2570 www.skyzone.com/pensacola

Sweet Frog

3749D Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze

Let’s celebrate! Bring your kiddos, or just yourself to celebrate special moments or, just because! Ask about birthday parties and catering.

850-583-6405 www.sweetfrog.com/stores/ frozen-yogurt-gulf-breeze/35182

URU Yoga and Beyond

2400 Executive Plaza Drive , Pensacola Children’s Yoga Birthday Parties starting at $150. Childen’s Aerial Yoga Birthday Parties starting at $200. Yoga available at All 3 URU Yoga locations, aerial only at 2400 Executive Plaza Drive location.

850-377-5334 www.uruyoga.com

UWF Aquatic Center Pool Party

11000 University Parkway, Building 73, Pensacola Indoor pool with lifeguards on duty

850-474-2497 www.uwf.edu/academic-engagement-and-student-affairs/departments/recreationand-wellness/aquatics/pool-parties-and-grouprentals/

Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park

301 West Main Street , Pensacola

A multi-use, park development on Pensacola’s waterfront. Exhibition space, an amphitheater, playground, festival grounds and is also home the the Blue Wahoos Stadium. All or specific areas may be rented for private events.

850-436-5671 www.pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com

West Florida Railroad Museum

5003 Henry Street, Milton

Visit our website under Events for party information. The Dining Car is available to rent for parties. This car is heated, air-conditioned, has a full kitchen and seats 36. To book a party please email: conductor@wfrm.org

850-623-3645 www.wfrm.org

Rental Entertainment / Party Supplies

Special and Sweet

ad on page 21

Our mission is to deliver smiles! Let us help you with our special celebration from grand balloon decor to sweet treats, fresh flowers and stuffed balloons for all your occasions, big or small. To see some of our work Find us on Facebook and Instagram @doitspecialandsweet

850-687-8486 doitspecialandsweet@gmail.com www.specialandsweet.com

Backyard Bouncers

Pensacola

Waterslides, bounce houses, interactive slides, dry slides, concessions, party supplies and more for rental.

850-475-8846 www.backyardbouncerspensacola.com

Bounce-N-Slide

Serving the Greater Pensacola Area, Bounce houses, slides, waterslides, moon walks, jumpers, and more. We deliver, set up, and take down inflatables.

850-384-6464 www.bounce-n-slide.com

Custom Baskets and Balloons

9254 North Palafox Street, Pensacola Custom balloon displays, arches, centerpieces, gift baskets and more. Visit us on Facebook for pictures. We deliver!

850-479-4438 www.custombasketsballoons.com

Incredible Adventures Inflatables

Incredible Adventures will deliver the FUN! Bounce houses, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Sports Games, Snow Cones, and more! 850-776-1995 www.incredibleadventures inflatables.com

Kent’s Special Events

3877 North Palafox Street, Pensacola

Tents, tables, chairs, lighting, foam/bubble machine, conces sions. we are a full service rental and sales company. 850-932-3505 www.gokents.com

Magic Memories

Photography LLC –Photo Booth Rental Magic Memories Photo Booth is the premier supplier of photo booth rentals along the Gulf Coast regions of Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. (251) 490-5693 www.magicmemoriesphoto.com

Outdoor Fun Inflatables

Elberta

Baldwin County, Surrounding Areas and parts of Pensacola! Obstacle courses, dry slides, water slides, tent, tables, & more.

251-923-7719 www.outdoorfuninflatables.com

Patriot Party Rentals

Inflatables and concessions rental items. 850-889-1020 www.patriotpartyrentals.com/

Pensacola Inflatables

We offer a diverse inventory of entertainment from inflatable water & dry slides, bounce houses, mechanical rides, rock climbing walls, movie screens, concessions and more. All rentals are overnight for FREE! Add a second day for 50% 850-602-9255 www.Pensacolainflatables.com

SupDogs Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals

Pensacola

Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals. They are delivered to your preferred paddle boarding location. Ask about options for birthday parties, corporate parties, youth groups and team building. 850-324-5584 www.isupdogs.com

Wonderful World of Air

Pensacola

Providing Pensacola and surrounding areas inflatable fun for any type of event!

850-316-5362 www.wonderfulworldofair.com

One of the best things I started doing as a mom was unconsciously implementing rhythms into my day.

They’re things that trigger other things or things triggered by other things.

These do not have to be complicated!

Rhythms are some of the most-autopilot-type things we, as moms, do throughout our day. They are likely ones you’re already doing and just haven’t specifically named. These can be applied to cleaning, getting out of the house, naptime, quiet time. Any time!

For example, I have rhythms that are literally visual signals for my kids, my family, or myself. At breakfast when we wake up, I open the shades and the back door to let the light in. At naptime midday, I turn off the big overhead lights. At bedtime, my nightstand lamp goes on. These help my brain (and my kids!) to visualize and understand our day is starting, or “Hey, it’s rest time, let’s be calm.” Or, “okay time to wind down for the night.”

These things can happen; and likely do — naturally. But you can also slowly set them in place to serve you and your daily flow of living. Whether you are a stay-at-home, work-at-home, or workout-of-the-home mom or dad, you are busy and you need these!

While the ones I use might look different than the ones you do, here are just some that have been particularly helpful to me in this season of young kids.

Morning Rhythms

In the morning while I let the dog out, I click on the coffee maker to brew. My daughter starts her morning preschool work at the dining room table, which I have set out the night before, and I put my toddler in his chair for breakfast. While they are sitting and contained, I put away the dishes set out to dry the night before and empty the dishwasher.

To help me with my rhythm I look for triggers to go to that next step. Dog outside = press the coffee maker, kids contained

= put away dishes without my one-year-old opening all the cabinets or grabbing at the glass plates.

These are the crucial first moments of our day, and while things don’t always run smoothly and perfectly, I can depend on them to get me started. Simplicity wins. And it also helps us function. So do rhythms that involve coffee because... priorities, right!?

Nap Time Rhythms

Every nap time, I put my youngest down and immediately throw in a load of laundry, make a cup of coffee, then sit at my computer to work. When my son wakes up from his afternoon nap, I grab pajamas for both kids to wear to bed while I am already upstairs and then set them in the bathroom on the counter. You may think getting pajamas to wear five hours later sounds insane, but hear me out.

It seems almost silly or trivial, but when they’re in the bath downstairs at 6:30 p.m. and their pajamas are upstairs in their dressers, no one’s leaving kids unattended to grab them. Signals and rhythms, once again, saving the evening chaos from more chaos!

I also do a speedy ten-minute pickup of the main areas during nap time to “reset” the day. This is quite literally a visual signal for reset, much like opening the blinds at the start of the day.

My major nap time triggers are: come down the stairs and pass the laundry room = start the washer, turn his sound machine off = grab pajamas.

Sounds simple enough, right?

2023

Discover Day Camp has been developed to address the real needs of students in a safe environment as they are prepared for the upcoming school year. The daily schedule includes instruction in math and reading skills plus hands-on opportunities for discovery with fun interactive science experiments, planetarium field trips, computer adventures, robotics, virtual tours, and scavenger hunts. for those who have just completed Grades 1– 6

Evening Rhythms

Every night I load the dishwasher after dinner. I also preset the coffee maker to run smoothly in the morning. Big lights in the main areas go off, lamps go on. Dishes get washed and set out on the mat to dry to be put away in the morning. When I shower at night, I set out my pajamas and also set out my clothes for the next day on my dresser.

My triggers here are: turning on the shower = get PJs as well as clothes for the next day, kids ready for bed = big lights off, coffee maker prepped, load dishwasher.

Cleaning Rhythms

For cleaning-specific rhythms, I do at least one load of laundry a day. I change the sheets generally on Sundays, but definitely on the weekend. I don’t have a specific schedule I follow for cleaning, but try to weave in these signals throughout my days and week.

I have tried a schedule like “Monday – vacuum, Tuesday –wash all the laundry, Wednesday – deep clean the kitchen” and it doesn’t work for our changing life and daily routine. If this works for you, great!

Smaller and more subtle triggers feel less overwhelming to me. The biggest difference I’ve found in leaning into rhythms and triggers is that they are habit-forming guides and they just tend to stick longer. I’ve found that strict and detailed daily cleaning schedules feel almost defeating to me because our days look different from week to week. If I don’t follow the “Monday Schedule” exactly, I feel too defeated to attempt Tuesdays, and then I’m thrown off for the whole week. A lot of the time, in changing seasons, rigid schedules don’t last.

If I know I’m going to bed every night or that I pick up the kitchen after the kids are asleep, I can instill things into our routine based on those things. Not just because it happens to be Thursday night.

Wrap Up

These routines and habits serve me and my household. They may not look like yours and that’s okay (you may enjoy creat ing systems instead!). Take some time after reading this to think about your day and what you already do. Maybe write down some rhythms you notice you do already. Or take note for a whole day and jot down some of the things you need to get done.

Can you give your kids or yourself a way to remember how to do them, a way to connect them to something else? Identify the signals that trigger them and evaluate how you can do them more efficiently or even at all. See the routines serving you in your house already, what needs to be altered, and what can be tossed aside in the season of life you are in. These habits and rhythms are not to make you and your household run like robots! They are simply tools, which later turn into unconscious habits.

When we spend so much time at home, it is important to cre ate a sense of fluidity and flow within our days. Habits triggered by signals or other routines are the easiest ways I’ve found to adopt this mentality. Your house will be running smoothly in no time! Well...as smooth as it can with kids running around, let’s be real.

Kailyn is a wife and mama to two wild, blond babes, currently living where the mili tary sends them. With an Early Childhood Education and Psychology degree, she is a Kindergarten teacher-turned-mama turned-freelance writer.