Trying to arrange a life around your children can be incredibly difficult. We like to pack our schedules with activities and fun things to do. However, there can occasionally be something major which comes in and disrupts our schedules. Here are some of the things you can do to ensure that everything is kept as smooth and as normal as possible.
Have a Central Calendar
In a modern world full of technology, we can often forget about the simplicity of a simple paper calendar. Place it in a central location like the kitchen and update it with any and all-important events for the family. From the baby’s next doctor’s appointment to Dad’s round of golf on Sundays, make sure that it is on the calendar.
An easy trick for keeping this organised is to use a different colour pen for each member of the family. This means that, even at a distant, all you have to do is glance at the calendar and the bit of red pen will mean that your eldest child has something at the weekend.
For any family attempting to modernise, there are many apps out there which have the same function as a paper calendar. Try to find one that will sync to everyone’s phones at the same time so you will know that everyone has the same information.
Arrange Repairs on the Same Day
Fate always strikes us down at the most inopportune of moments. It can be very bad luck which makes both your hob and your washing machine break at the same time but there is little you can do except arrange a repair and make do in the meantime.
Busy schedules can mean that you have little opportunity to arrange multiple visits on different days. If possible, block-book repairmen to all come on one day which is most convenient for you. You could also look for repairmen who are able to work with different appliances. For example, Service Force will be able to send you a repairman who can work with a number of different appliances made by AEG. This can be a lifesaver if your AEG appliances fail and you don’t want to source multiple repairmen. Take a look at their services here: https://www.serviceforce.co.uk/aeg-repairs/
Ask for Help
If you need to free up a little time then don’t be afraid to ask for a little help from someone you trust. For example, if you need to do something when your children have a swimming lesson then why not ask one of the other parents to pick up your children from school and take them to the pool? Likewise, if you need to go somewhere when your children would normally need picking up, arrange a play date at a friend’s so they can just go somewhere safe and you know they will be well-cared for. It is easier than you think to arrange for your children to go somewhere; all you have to do is ask and someone is bound to be able to step in and help out.
Apologise to Your Children for Missed Opportunities
So, they weren’t able to go to their sports practice this week because something happened. Make sure you sit down with them and go over why it didn’t happen and make sure that they know that you are sorry about it. If they respond positively, you can take them for a treat or a special afternoon out.
Trying to schedule a family life can be extremely difficult. However, with some clear communication with your partner and children, you will be able to deal with any interruption thrown your way.
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