MomTime TV

For a mom with young children, having an extra set of hands or several extra sets seems not only helpful but critical! Do you wish your kids could do more tasks independently?

Here are some tips to making this wish a reality.

Make it tangible. Use a list or "Morning cards" (cards with printed pictures of tasks to be done) so your child knows step by step what tasks need to be accomplished in the morning. If you are interested in purchasing "Morning cards", you can purchase them from me for $10. Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Keep it low. Place plastic cups and bowls in a place where your child can reach so they can help themselves to drinks and make their own breakfast. It may sound unconventional, but consider using a drawer. Be sure the cereal is also on a low shelf in the pantry.

Simplify. Hang a sweater hanger in your child's closet. Place a folded uniform or school clothes in each slot (some sweater hangers even come with the days of the week labeled on them). Kids can easily get dressed and match successfully on their own in the morning.

It must be easy. Hanging kids clothes in the closet or using drawer dividers, makes things easier to find and put away. If you use hangers, make sure the rod is low enough for your child to reach. Double rods are inexpensive to purchase online.

Designate an area. Have a spot for kids to hang their backpacks after school. Choosing a place close to the door increases the likelihood that it will get used. Use labels for each child's hook.

Put the snacks together. Have a drawer or basket labeled "snacks" in the pantry. Place individual size portions of mom approved snacks inside. Give kids a limit of how many snacks are allowed per day. Let them pick them out themselves.

Susan Stewart is a professional organizer and the founder of Perfectly Placed Professional Organization and Design in the Phoenix area. Perfectly Placed specializes in bringing peace and order to busy families through organization. You can find out more about Susan and Perfectly Placed at her website: http://www.perfectlyplaced.org