I am on year 4 of navigating the delicate balancing act of managing daily routines with toddlers while also nurturing my creative passions. Simplifying my day has lead to more joyful moments and less stress. Here are some practical strategies that have worked for me:

1. Establish a Consistent Routine

Creating a predictable daily schedule helps both you and your toddler know what to expect. Set regular times for meals, naps, and play. This rhythm not only provides comfort for your little one but also allows you to carve out dedicated blocks of time for work.

2. Prioritize Tasks

Identify the most important tasks you need to accomplish each day. Write them down and focus on completing a few key items rather than overwhelming yourself with a long to-do list. Understanding which tasks I can include the kids in and which tasks I should not even attempt while they are under my care has been the biggest game changer for me. This clarity helps me to stay focused and reduces feelings of being scattered and frustrated.

3. Involve Your Toddler

Engage your toddler in your daily tasks. Simple activities like sorting laundry, stirring ingredients, or organizing materials for your pottery can turn mundane chores into fun learning experiences. This not only keeps them entertained but also fosters a sense of accomplishment.

4. Create a Play Station

Designate a specific area for your toddler to play independently. Fill it with toys, books, and art supplies they can explore while you work nearby. In my studio, I built a mud kitchen that entertains both of my kids endlessly. Having a safe and engaging space allows them to entertain themselves, giving you time to focus when necessary.

5. Meal Prep for the Week

Spend a little time each weekend preparing meals for the week ahead. This could mean chopping vegetables, cooking large batches of staples like rice or pasta, or even prepping snacks. Having healthy, ready-to-eat options on hand saves time during the week and minimizes stress during busy days.

6. Limit Screen Time

While technology can be a helpful tool, limiting screen time for your toddler encourages more creative play and interaction. Set boundaries around device usage and encourage activities that allow them to explore their imagination. We are not against screens in our household but we are intentional with what we let the kids watch and we leave it as rare treat (once or twice a week).

7. Practice Mindfulness

Incorporate blocks of time where you are 100% present with your child into your day. I have noticed when I time block intentional activities with the kids in between working, it results in their independent play going so much smoother. We read books throughout the days together, eat and prep meals together, work on house chores together, etc. I try to include them with as much as possible while having a clear understanding of what to not attempt with the kids present.

8. Embrace Flexibility

While routines are valuable, it’s also important to remain flexible. Toddlers can be unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. I hope you can have more grace for yourself than I’ve been willing to give myself sometimes. Recognize that it’s okay to adjust your expectations and go with the flow when needed. This mindset can alleviate pressure and create a more enjoyable atmosphere.

9. Connect with Other Moms

Building a support network with other moms has been so encouraging for me. Whether it’s through local meetups or online groups, sharing experiences and resources can help you feel less isolated in your journey.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge and celebrate the small victories in your day. Whether it’s finishing a project, managing to keep the house tidy, or simply getting through a challenging day with your toddler, these moments deserve recognition. Celebrating progress, no matter how small, can motivate you to keep going!

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My husband and I both agree it feels a little insane to attempt anything in addition to raising kids but it is so worth it for our kids to see us working hard to pursue something we’re passionate about. I hope you know you’re doing an incredible job!