(BPT) – It takes a village to raise a child, and dads play an important role in taking on tough parenting duties. Sometimes their methods don’t always go by the book, but through that out-of-the-box thinking can emerge some pretty amazing parenting tips and tricks.
In honor of Father’s Day, try these 10 genius parenting hacks that dads around the country use every day to save time, money and have a few laughs.
Clean up diaper duty: Changing diapers can be a mess, so think ahead for a smoother swap. Simply place a new Luvs diaper underneath the dirty one before removing it from your child. A few quick wipes and a fresh one is right where it needs to be.
Laundry basket tub time: Is your kids’ tub time making your knees and back ache? Stop toys from floating away by placing a laundry basket in the bathtub before filling. Sit your child in the basket and toys stay close by.
Quick clean-up: Small toys can be incredibly time consuming to pick up. Rather than bending over for each piece, put a sock over the vacuum hose and suck up blocks, plastic figures and more with the greatest of ease.
Save mega money: Kids can be expensive, especially babies who need diapers, wipes and feeding supplies. Don’t ignore the potential of coupons in the Sunday circular, and consider downloading apps that offer exclusive savings and rebates, like Ibotta.
Bye bye blowouts: Simplify diaper duty by choosing an affordable diaper like Luvs. With large refastenable stretch tabs and specially designed leak barriers around legs, you’ll say goodbye to blowouts for good.
Toilet paper line: When big kids are potty training, they often use far too much toilet paper. Eliminate the endless roll-out by placing a piece of painter’s tape on the wall below the roll so kids know how much to take.
Monster no-more spray: When the Boogie Man lurks in the middle of the night, children look to parents for reassurance. That’s when monster spray is an essential. Simply fill a spray bottle with water and label with a drawing of a monster crossed out. Spray in times of need to put little minds at ease.
Reading anarchy: If you want big kids in bed at 9, set bedtime for 8 but allow them to stay up to read if desired. Kids will jump at the chance to ignore bedtime and think reading is their way of breaking house rules.
Capitalize on competition: Dads love a good game and kids are naturally competitive. Use this to your advantage by making chores a contest. Set a timer and see who can pick up toys the fastest or get dressed first in the morning.
Robe it up: Mornings are busy and many parents get themselves ready for the day prior to waking up the kids. Keep office clothes free of spills, smudges and spit-up by wearing a robe over work attire until you head out the door.
These simple tricks will help make every day a little easier for you and your family so you have more time to have fun and make memories.