It’s hard enough adulting, and when you add kids to the mix, well that adds a whole nother level of challenges. Food spills, car boredom, boo-boos. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up solutions to these everyday problems. Here a 13 parenting hacks that will make your life a little easier, because we could use all the shortcuts we can get!
1. No-Slip Socks
Simply add puffy paint to the bottom of your little one’s socks to prevent them from slipping and falling while they’re playing in the house. Bonus points if you make a pretty design, like these snowflakes.
2. Spill-Proof Mason Jar
Have no fear! A spill-proof container is here! With this hack, you can enjoy car rides worry-free while the kids enjoy their favorite snacks. (via Babble)
3. Magnetic Chalkboard
This simple hack allows the kids to express their inner creativity and keep them occupied. (via Babble)
4. Apple Slice Hack
This brilliant idea makes packing a pre-sliced apple worry-free. Just chop an apple, wrap an elastic around it, and add it to your kid’s lunch. (via Babble)
5. Portable Lego Kit
Using a lunchbox and some Legos, you can easily create a kit that makes for the perfect road trip companion for the little ones! (via Babble)
6. Mason Jar Snack Hack
This hack allows your kids to easily bring all of their favorite treats to school in a single compact container. Dipping sauces included! (via Babble)
7. Cupcake Carrier
Transform a leftover shirt box into a cupcake carrier with this simple trick! It keeps the cupcakes from moving and leaves the frosting intact. (via Babble)
8. On-the-Go Snack Pack
This snack pack will give your kids plenty of treat options to choose from. For added fun, have them help fill each compartment! (via Babble)
9. Baby Powder Hack
What happens at the beach should STAY at the beach. Give this baby powder hack a try to keep any sand from stepping foot in your car. (via Babble)
10. Aloe Ice Cubes
With the kiddos constantly running around outdoors, it can be hard to avoid sunburns. Soothe their pain with these simple aloe ice cubes! (via Babble)
11. Cupcake Liner Hacks
Try these two cupcake liner hacks to avoid messy popsicle drips and unwanted bugs in your drinks. (via Babble)
12. Sponge Necklace
Playing in the sun can be exhausting and leave your kids feeling overheated. Create this sponge necklace to help them stay cool. (via Babble)
13. Water Balloon Cooler
When bringing food on-the-go, there’s the dilemma of wanting your food to stay cool while not becoming soggy. With this water balloon cooler hack, you can brush those worries away! (via Babble)