The Toddler Survival Kit: 10 Sanity-Saving Essentials I Never Knew I Needed

Today I reflected on the past weekend and thought to myself, there are so many things that I could have done better. But there were so many instances that I thought were learning moments for both of the kids and for myself as a mom. One meltdown in particular stuck with me, my son would not give up his toy tractors that are only outside toys to come inside for the bath. This has been going on for over a week now, he will kick and scream for what feels like forever, but usually lasts 5-10 minutes.

10 Sanity-Saving Essentials I Never Knew I Needed

• A reliable snack stash - It is a must to keep a basket full of snacks in the car for a working mother who's toddlers are always hungry to and from daycare. It is also VERY important that there is a reliable snack option for mom that is set aside in a safe place where your toddler won't steal it!

• A “yes” space for safe independent play - Make sure to make time for your toddlers to try new things and explore and be patient and not try to control every move they make. This will make them feel more relaxed and easier to manage from day to day.

• Noise-canceling headphones (for you!) - Sometimes it is okay to drown out the constant whining and crying even if it is only for 2 minutes. Turn on your jam song, and then get back in there!

• The “magic phrase” that actually stops a meltdown (or helps) - It is so easy to try to offer up a "treat" or some kind of distraction that will instantly stop a melt down but the truth is there is no magic phrase, sometimes it is okay to just let them have a moment. The magic is you being there and offering support to come to a solution.

• A favorite toddler show that you can tolerate - It is OKAY to turn on that favorite show or movie so that you can all relax and take a moment to calm down. Trash Truck on Netflix is our favorite.

• A trusted toddler cup that doesn’t leak - It is a must to always keep your little ones hydrated, but it is also a must to not have to clean up spilled milk and juice off the carpet all day long.

• A backup lovey/stuffed animal - I learned this one the hard way. Toddlers become deeply attached to their comfort items. Whether it’s a threadbare bunny, a drool-soaked blankie, or a random stuffed avocado, that one object can be the key to sleep, comfort during daycare drop-offs, or surviving a long car ride.

• A 15-minute “me-time” ritual - Yoga stretches, reading one chapter in a book, sitting with a hot cup of coffee.

• A reminder that “this too shall pass” - One day, you’ll realize you haven’t carried anyone on your hip in a while. You’ll hear “I can do it myself” more than “mama help.” And as exhausting as today might feel, you’ll miss their little voice calling for you in the dark or the way they run into your arms like you’re their whole world.

  So breathe. Laugh when you can. Cry when you need to. Take pictures of the chaos (and the quiet). And remember: You’re not doing it wrong. It’s just really hard.