Morning Rush

Set your alarm clock for 15 minutes earlier than you need to get up to get the kids off to school.  That way you don't have to jump out of bed the second your eyes open.  Rather, you can relax for a few minutes before you wake up.  This will help to put you in a better mood and make the morning go more smoothly.

IN CASE THEY GET LOST

Starting at 2 years old, start teaching your kid their full name, phone number and address.  Repeat it several times a day, turn it into a song or a rhyme, and quiz them at dinnertime!  Heaven forbid they get separated from you at a store, amusement park, etc., an adult will be able to help them to get back to you.

INEXPENSIVE WAY TO CREAT THEME ROOM

Do your kids want a "theme" in their bedroom, such as Diego, Mario, Cinderella, etc?  The specialty furniture, lamps and curtains can cost a fortune - especially the theme beds.  Try this trick instead: buy inexpensive white furniture, and decorate it with wall cling art in the theme of your child's choice.  You can find virtually any themed cling art online for a relatively cheap price.  Add matching clings to the walls.  The clings stick for as long as you want them to, and when your child changes their mind, simply peel off and replace with a new theme.

As for the curtains, go to JoAnns Fabrics and pick out a fabric with your child's theme.  If no one in your circle of friends or family sews, ask the salespeople to direct you to someone who can inexpensively turn the fabric into curtains, pillows, pillow cases, etc. 

Add a matching bedspread and/or stuffed animal, and voila, you have your child's dream room for at a cost that is not a nightmare!