10 time savings tips for moms, brought to you by the Starbucks mobile app

I think that we can all agree that any mom (or parent for that matter) could use some extra time in her day. From taking the kids to activities to daily chores, it seems that 24 hours is never enough.

Starbucks understands that we are all busy. With the introduction of the Starbucks mobile app for iPhone and Android you save a few precious minutes by paying for your purchases through your phone.

To introduce this time saving Starbucks app, More 4 Mom's Buck is offering ten time saving tips to help make your days a little better.

1. Use a centralized family calendar.
With all the sports, appointments, birthdays and general daily stuff, a family calendar is essential to keeping everyone organized. By having all the activities in a single location, you can feel less frazzled by forgetting a special event.

2. Don't over schedule yourself
I love that my kids want to do everything, but running from place to place can leave your energy zapped. Try to keep a little down time during your routine to keep sanity for you and your kids.

3. Have prepared foods in your pantry
Of course, we all want healthy, fresh meals for your family. But sometimes having simple go to meals ready at a moments notice can be extremely helpful. Whether it's hamburger helper or franks and beans, not having to worry about dinner can make a day go a little smoother.

4. Coordinate with a friend
Finding activities that the kids can do with friends can make your life easier. Whether it's carpooling to the game or having someone to talk to during downtime, these little differences can lift your spirits during a busy week.

5. Wake up a few minutes early for me time
I know, who wants to wake up earlier than necessary. But a few minutes of me time each day can lessen your chaos. Try to think about something that makes you happy or a loving memory to start your day off to a right start.

6. Have your kids help with chores.
If you kids are old enough have them help out with some simple household tasks. Whether it's emptying the dishwasher or putting away their clean clothes, simple chores can teach them responsibility. Plus, it helps us moms too.

7. Take advantage of your smartphone
If you are lucky enough to have a smartphone, take advantage of all the great apps that are available. From paying for your coffee, like the Starbucks app, keeping your grocery shopping lists or reminding you of appointments, your smartphone can do it all.

8. Ask for help
I know as moms we never want to admit that we can't do it all. But having a friend or family member help with some of the additional activities can take the burden off your schedule.

9. Set up a daily routine
Kids thrive on routines. When they know a schedule, it can help everyone be on time and get things done. Be up front with your kids. Let them know their activities each day and what needs to be accomplished. You will be amazed how everyone can work together to get it done.

10. When in doubt, laugh
When you think about it, life is short. If your family is healthy and happy, then life is good. Nothing else matters.

These are just a few of my thoughts about how I handle my family's crazy schedule. Do you have any tips? Please share them with us.


Disclosure “I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Starbucks blogging program, for a gift card worth $30. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”