10 Time Saving Tips for Busy Moms

I have always been a multi-tasker. Juggling projects was my job when I worked in advertising years ago. Then, I became a mom and learned what it really means to be pulled in a million different directions every day! With 4 kids 9 and under, someone needs something nearly every minute of the day. Since my kids are homeschooled, there is no break for me during school hours. Managing it all can be hectic, and exhausting. There never seems to be enough hours in the day. But, I've learned a few things that help me keep it together.

1. Use technology to your advantage: I am a list maker. I used to make shopping lists, but sometimes forget them and wind up leaving the store without something we needed. Making it necessary for a second trip. I love my iphone, and use the notes feature to create shopping lists. That way I always have them with me.

2. Stock up on staples: I'm a couponer and stock up on staples when I find a good deal. I make two big shopping trips a month and try to limit extra trips to the store, if possible.

3. Freeze in portions: After shopping, it helps to separate meats and veggies into portions to use in recipes later. They are easier to defrost and prepare on busy evenings.

4. Clean out the car at the pump: Traveling with kids can mean crumbs, cups and crayons end up all over the car. Do a clean sweep when you're at the gas pump and get rid of the junk.

5. Divide and conquer: At least once a day, assign everyone a room to pick up. The house will be more organized and livable in under 10 minutes.

6. Use a caddy for cleaning: Organize and stock a caddy so that when you are in cleaning mode, you can carry it easily from room to room and zip through the dirt.

7. Cook once, eat twice: I often double recipes and freeze half for a later meal, or throw twice the meat on the grill for a great second meal during the week.

8. Map out errands: A shopping trip or running errands without kids is a luxury for me. I try to plan ahead and map out a couple of hours when I can knock out my errands and have hubby watch the kids or set up a play date. That way, I get things done more quickly with less aggravation, and I have more free time throughout the week.

9. Shop online: I save lots of time and money shopping online by taking advantage of discounts, rewards points and free shipping. The best part? I can shop on my time without whining kids!

10. Teamwork: Our family is a team. If there's a job to do we tackle it together. Enlist even young toddlers to help with housework like sweeping, dusting, putting away laundry, etc. You'll have more time and energy and teach valuable lessons along the way.

A little pre-planning and a lot of teamwork go along way toward making every day life simpler and more enjoyable. What tips do you have for saving time?

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Starbucks blogging program, for a gift card worth $30. For more information on how you can participate, click here.