When it comes to my schedule, it’s not only my schedule, but the schedule of four other people. So, how do I keep five schedules organized and manage to get places on time, most of the time? It takes practicing, editing, and making decisions that might not be the best for everyone at the moment. My three kids range from ages 11 to 3 and everyone is into something different. We can’t forget about mom and dad too. So here, I’ll take a stab in explaining how I keep my family schedules organized.
Werk, werk, werk, werk, werk…
First, you have set schedules that are all year round so I start with these. For example, school drop-off and pick up, daycare schedule, and work schedules. Those are the schedules you block off your calendar. This allows you to schedule all the other activities out of the typically 40 hours a week.
#sportsmom
Second, you look at what your kids are into and research, ask friends, and see what fits into your schedule. We are a sports family so far and so every season is different. In general, sports games are on Saturdays, sometimes Sundays, but make sure when you sign up for that particular sport it fits in to your fixed schedule. So if you have church on Sundays, don’t do it. We are so lucky to have so many different sports programs available to us in Orange County, that you will probably find one that best suits your family’s schedules.
I think that when you show your kids that being present for games and practices, they see the importance of commitment and if they work towards any activity they can get better. But, be prepared – if your family is not ready for the commitment of organized sports, do not introduce it yet.
There’s always the option of taking skills classes or just playing at the park, until you can fully commit to organized sports outside of your schedule.
My biggest tip with sports is that you do one sport, per kid maximum each season.
Don’t forget about the fun stuff
So now your schedule is full of your set schedules and extracurricular schedules, what’s next? Hello, you have to have a life too, right?!? I am talking about working out, date nights, girls nights, dad’s night out, and other fun things. I make this a priority because I know it gives me energy for the other parts in my life. And sometimes, it can intersect with work and sports.
So if you wonder why you feel like you are on a hamster wheel, maybe you need a date night, a girl’s night out, or just some self-care to get back to you. These are the events most people don’t schedule or cancel because it’s not part of the regular routine, but no one ever says, “I regret that girl’s night out.”
So do it, schedule it, and go to it.
Sounds like a full plate of things to do, but now you can just do it.
By doing these three major things to keep your family schedules organized, you can add in meal planning, a meditation, and anything to fit into the nooks and crannies of your schedule. You will see so much space for more.
A new thing I started this year is sitting down with my husband on Sunday evenings to go over our week, so we know who is doing what and there is no wondering. It has helped so much.
Now that I’ve opened up your calendar, what are you going to add to it? Any other tips for keeping your family schedules organized? Let us know in the comments!
