I’m going to be completely real with you… if I hear the phrase “get your shoes on” one more time this week, I might actually lose my mind.
We’re three weeks into January 2026, the holiday break is a distant memory, and the “back to school” reality has hit us like a cold splash of water. I woke up yesterday and it was the same old story: the sun wasn’t even up, I was already on my third cup of coffee, and I was basically a drill sergeant in a bathrobe. “Hurry up! Eat your toast! Where is your backpack? Why are you wearing one sock?!”
It’s exhausting. It’s draining. And honestly… it’s a terrible way for us (and the kids) to start the day.
If your mornings still feel like a scene from a disaster movie, I need you to hear me: Stop the “hurry up” cycle. When we rush them, their little brains go into fight-or-flight mode. They don’t get faster; they get more stubborn. It’s a biological thing… and it’s why your yelling just makes them move like they’re stuck in molasses.
I decided to try a different approach, and it only takes five minutes. It’s the closest thing to “parenting magic” I’ve found lately.
The 5-Minute “Connection Before Correction” Routine
We spend all morning correcting them (brush your teeth, get your bag, sit down). Instead, try spending the first five minutes of their wake-up call connecting. Here is how it looks in my house:
The 2-Minute Snuggle (Minute 1-2) I know, you’re thinking Lavanda, I don’t have two minutes, we’re already late! But trust me on this. Instead of flipping on the big light and shouting from the hallway, I sit on the edge of their bed. I give them a hug, a little back rub, or just sit there quietly while they blink the sleep away. It fills their “emotional tank” before you ask them to do anything.
The “High-Low” Game (Minute 3-4) While they’re putting on those elusive socks, I ask one question: “What’s one thing you’re excited about today?” It shifts their brain from “I’m tired and grumpy” to “Oh, I get to see my friend at lunch.” A happy kid is a cooperative kid. It’s a lot harder to argue about oatmeal when you’re talking about something you love.
The “Mission Briefing” (Minute 5) Instead of barking orders, I give them the “mission.” I say, “Okay, the mission is: shoes on, bag by the door, and let’s see if we can beat our record from yesterday.” I make it a game, not a chore. Kids love a challenge, but they hate being bossed around (kind of like us, right?).
Why It Changes Everything
I used to think that to get out the door on time, I had to be strict and fast. But I realized that five minutes of calm saves me twenty minutes of arguing. When they feel connected to you, they want to help you.
(And a little pro-tip from a mom who has been there: I started setting my alarm ten minutes earlier so I’m not rushed while trying to be calm. It’s a lot easier to be a “zen mom” when you aren’t looking at the clock every three seconds.)
Mornings don’t have to be a battleground, love. We can send our kids off to school feeling loved and capable instead of rushed and frazzled. Try it tomorrow morning—just five minutes of connection before the chaos starts. You’ll be amazed at how much faster they move when they’re moving with a smile.
What are your thoughts about If Your Mornings Are Still Chaos… Stop Doing ThisPlease share in the comments below. I really would love to know.
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
‘This post may contain affiliate links
If you haven’t made enough money blogging, look into taking the
Complete Guide to Make Money Blogging for only
($10… WOW 95% Off for a limited time).
If your mornings are still chaos, stop the “hurry up” cycle! 🛑 I’m sharing a simple 5-minute routine to get your kids cooperative and happy before the school bus arrives. Let’s trade the yelling for connection! ✨ 🚌 ✨ ❤️ #LavandaMIchelle
