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If you think that life is already hard, wait until you have kids of your own. Yes, raising kids is a magical journey in creating a decent human being and yet as rewarding and fulfilling it is, parenting is also probably the hardest task known to the human race. The sleepless nights, the pee on a bed, the vomit on your favorite t-shirt and other hardships that are aplenty can sometimes be alleviated with clever life hacks, though.
We here at Bored Panda have collected a list of genius parenting tips and tricks that will leave you wondering: “Why didn't I think of that before?” From clever life advice on keeping your toddlers occupied, to life tips on getting your kid eating healthy and all the other possible parenthood hacks, you'll find all the necessary parenting advice on easy rearing here.
Scroll down below to check the life hacks for kids and adults alike out for yourself, and don't forget to upvote the best ones!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Creative Hack
Paul ANTONESCU 7 years ago
Well done. Thank God you're not a politician or a marketing specialist.
RELATED:
#2
How To Easily Teach Multiplication Tables
Night Owl 7 years ago
Wow! I want that. I hate to admit it, but I still sometimes have problems with 8 and 7. I never really learned them properly (and I generally have problems with memorizing numbers, I simply don't like them)
glowworm2 7 years ago
I wish I had that! I had trouble at first learning my multiplication tables that weren't 2, 5, or 10 but my mother solved that with cards.
April Garcia Andrade 7 years ago
Who use to use their name tags when they were younger to do the multiplication problems.P.S. I don't do it anymore because I know my time tables by memory.
#3
How To Tell Your Twins Apart
Yvonne Bernal 7 years ago
I saw a story where the parents numbered their identical quadruplets heads so that the teacher and classmates could tell them apart 457996-chi...cb7c58.jpg 
Rose the Cook 7 years ago
While a lot of people will find this funny there must be a better way to tell them apart.
#4
No Bathtub? Here's The Solution: Baby Pool In The Shower Cabin. It's Also Handy When Travelling
Red 7 years ago
the fact that that pool fits perfectly in that shower tho seriously satisfies my soul
Alexandru Bucur 7 years ago
You can tell it's actually a round pool but it's flexible enough so that it conforms to the shower cabin. I be the fit would be even better with water in.
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Pandamand2 7 years ago
And how do you empty the pool that is covering the drain without flooding or damaging it?! Hmmmm... no one thought of that?!
Sandy MCcosh 6 years ago
I like this idea since I don’t have a tub the grandkids can take a bath
#5
BBQ Dad Hack
Pandamand2 7 years ago
Snowflake Dad, stopping his kid from learning fire - burns... I guess he had bad childhood memories sitting on the stove.
Christina Sersif 7 years ago
When I was maybe a little older than little guy I touched a pot of homemade lye soap being cooked. I learned then at the young rightful age of about 4 never to touch hot things.
#6
Use A Tent To Make A Sandpit. You Will Be Able To Close It During The Night To Keep The Cats Out
thepotatogirl 7 years ago
plus grass and weeds won't grow through the sand
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Freya the Wanderer 7 years ago
Cats never learn the difference between a sandbox and a litterbox.
Stacy Decossas 6 years ago
We filled our sand pit with pea gravel. Cats don't like to walk on it and there is no mess.
#7
Carseat Hack That Could Save Lives
Write out child’s name, DOB, parents names, emergency contacts, any medical conditions, any meds your child is on and even child’s doctor, then stick it to the child’s car seat. In the event of an accident and the parents are unconscious, this information will be extremely helpful to EMS
r3dd3v1lL 7 years ago
Also blood type. Rally cars have the names of the driver and co- driver with their blood type on the side of the car.
ADHORTATOR 7 years ago
I have this information written on my helmet, you never know....
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Sue Edwards-Catt 7 years ago
Pray it's never needed, but an extreamly brilliant idea. Should be included in every new car seat
BusLady 7 years ago
That would be handy. With a built in plastic sleeve attached to the back.
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Angi Willoughby 7 years ago
Officials may not see this. I keep emergency information in the glove box. They will look in there for driver info anyway.
#8
I Took A Rectangle-Shaped Tupperware And We Made 'Snow Blocks' For An 'Igloo'. My Boys Absolutely Loved It
Bill 7 years ago
I have plenty for free! It is in my driveway so feel free to come and take it all
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Yvonne Bernal 7 years ago
A college student made colored ice blocks to make this igloo! 3079740C00...2cfca5.jpg 
Desiree Summer 7 years ago
I used to do this all the time as a kid!!! Cant wait to pass it to my kids
April Garcia Andrade 7 years ago
HAHAHAHAHAHA *whispers*i'm dying on the inside
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#9
Although We Tell Our Daughter To Not Run Into Parking Lots, It Doesn't Mean She Is Going To Listen. I Bought This Car Magnet And It Has Been A Miracle Worker. She Loves Keeping Her Hand On The Bright Colors While Waiting For Mom And Will Try So Hard To Match Her Fingers To The Magnet's
Jess De La Souza 7 years ago
Look for it on Etsy! Or I can give you the link
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Erin Sheppard 7 years ago
I have my son put his hand in the circle, also known as the gas door.
Jodi Ellis 7 years ago
that is great, it also can double as a safe way to keep the kids fingers out of the door that is about to be shut.
Electric isopod 7 years ago
I use to do this when my kids were little. But I had no fancy magnet I just said “hands on the Jeep” and they’d put hands on the Jeep. Keeps them preoccupied so they don’t run off.
Night Owl 7 years ago
I imagine you playing a cop and play-arresting them :D
Load More Replies... Pandamand2 7 years ago
She isn't trying hard enough and why is the magnet so high?! Snowflake idea. What happens when there is no magnet - she runs wild like a feral cat?
Cassie 7 years ago
My kids had to be holding onto me, either my pocket, a belt loop, or to my skirt. That way, if I wasn't looking right at them, I could still feel if they let go and knew to turn my attention back to the kiddo. This is nice, but if she decides to stop touching the magnet, you might not notice right away.
#10
My Toddler Was Busy For Over 30 Minutes Playing With These Window Stickers On The Plane. Easy To Pack, Fun For Them, And Cheap!
Scrooge McCock 7 years ago
"I hate to say this, Tommy, but he got killed by the plane engine."
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April Garcia Andrade 7 years ago
I am totally going to use these when traveling since I have a trip coming up in a week and a half.I already have them but don't worry these are not for me there for my little sister.
#12
Keep A Cheap Potty Chair In Your Car Along With A Few Diapers. If Your Child Needs To Go To The Bathroom When There Isn’t One, Open A Diaper And Put In The Bottom Of The Potty Chair. When He Is Done, Wrap Up The Diaper And Done. No Mess
Leisa Kugler 6 years ago
Great idea!! You could use a couple of puppy pads (cheaper than diapers)
#13
If You Have To Bring Your Stroller Indoors Put Shower Caps On The Wheels To Prevent Bringing The Dirt Inside
#14
Inventive Dad Of The Day
kristy sickles 7 years ago
I was scrolling through the comments to see if anyone mentioned the dimples before I posted lol :)
Load More Replies... #15
Put Masking Tape On A Carpet For Your Kid To Play With Toy Cars
Leah Curtis 7 years ago
I know a store where you can buy tape with a road on it just for this. it's super cool
lincholn6echo 7 years ago
I had one of those toy car carpets, with a whole town on it. Best time of my life^^
Sarah Fister Gale 7 years ago
I made a hopscotch with tape on an old blanket that my kids played with all winter long.
Dian Ella Lillie 7 years ago
For a split second I thought that this was the outline of a body in a game of CSI: Kid...
Kathy MacKenzie 2 years ago
My grandson would love this so much until they get out of the rental .
#16
When Giving Meds, Write Out All The Planned Dosages On The Bottle Before Starting, Then, As Each One Is Given, Mark It Off. Eliminates Any Issues That Might Arise From Sleep-Deprived Forgetfulness
Tiny Dancer 7 years ago
I use one of those Pill-A-Day or whatever they're called thingies with plastic compartments for each day of the week (mine covers a month's worth).
Anu Shibin Joseph Raj 7 years ago
What if I forgot to mark it off due to "Sleep-Deprived Forgetfulness" ? :p
Tim Douglass 7 years ago
I use a dry erase marker to make a checklist on the bathroom mirror when I have to take a course of medications - would work for kids meds too.
#17
In Need Of A Little Bit Of Hands Free Time? Place Your Baby In Front Of The Washing Machine For A Whole New World Of Entertainment
Dorian Marches With Penguins 7 years ago
Or mirror for those of you who don’t have a washing machine
Erika Jones 7 years ago
My elementary aged son loved going to the laundromat - he would put a couple of his small stuffed animals in there with the clothes and watch them go around and around. He was disappointed when we were able to do laundry at home again!
Laura 7 years ago
This may not go over well but.....I used to let my 2 yr old son stand in the washing machine, with lid up -cant accidently turn it on. While i did stuff in garage,which is where wash/dryer was, I was never more than 5ft away. He couldn't get out or get hurt, or get into garage to play in it by himself and to this day (hes 16 now) he remembers and thought it was great fun. I sincerely hope i'm not promoting any abuse or neglect with this post!
My dog is my co pilot. 7 years ago
My mother did this with me. She would put me in front of the washing machine while she was upstairs making the beds. That was 42 years ago.
Donna Cheung 7 years ago
Putting my baby's high chair in front of the sleeping cat also works for us... well, until she gets too excited and the cat gets annoyed and leave.
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
When my daughter was an infant, she completely ignored the TV is something a relevant. Except for when the price is right was on! She was totally mesmerized for one hour a day!
Kathy MacKenzie 2 years ago
So needed this although when I put them on the dryer while I was loading the washer and folding the dry clothes. The running dryer lulled them to sleep 😴
#18
Ask Your Child To Sort Little Things Like Felt Balls Or Colourful Pasta Into A Muffin Pan
Maja Lykkegaard 7 years ago
My daughter loved doing this. At 8 years old, she still uses more time sorting beads than actually using them :)
Great Panda Mamu 7 years ago
Um, I'm 42 and I still sort my beads more than I actually use them to make jewelry. :)
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Randomcthulu 7 years ago
My mother used to have me do this with Skittles, but then again, my whole family is a bit OCD, I still like to sort things when I'm stressed, it's soothing
karinagoldfish 7 years ago
then dump it on the floor and say "oopsie! i guess u have to do it again"
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
Whuh?! This is called age appropriate play. Collecting, sorting, mixing, and resorting is the main component of many games and activities for infants through early elementary school.
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#19
French Fry Apples Anyone? When Your Toddler Doesn't Want Apples, Cut Them Like This And Pretend You Made Apple French Fries
r3dd3v1lL 7 years ago (edited)
Apples were actually one of the few fruits I liked as a kid. Especially the green ones.
Hannah Ingram 7 years ago
I liked apples, just didn't like biting into them on the first bite, the apple skin was always painful against my front teeth since they were quite large and then when it reached the gum it was very irritating
Load More Replies... Electric isopod 7 years ago
All I know is, I would be f*****g pissed if someone said here have some fries but they were actually apples. Trust issues.
Martha Meyer 7 years ago
Don't most kids like apples? i wouldn't let a toddler know what french fries are anyway and they luckily don't serve them at daycare.
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
Well Martha, I'm of the opinion that we can't totally control our children's universe. Kids are going to be exposed to a variety of foods at grandma's house, church, school, you name it! Even hospital food can introduce "No no's" that you didn't want them to have! Picky eating is actually a normal part of child development, and could be tied to our survival instincts. Finding fun and creative ways to work around picky eating and to encourage kids to try new and different foods are one of the perks of parenting.
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Arie Likes Coffee.... 7 years ago
My mom tried something similar on me. It backfired. I was a little autistic kid and I hated french fries. Too salty. I wanted fruits, vegetables, and chocolate only. I would not eat fries.
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
Cookie cutters! We cut sandwiches, large fruit and vegetable slices, cheese etc. into fun shapes with medium and small cookie cutters. It worked wonders for reluctant eaters.
#20
When Your Kid Is Asleep But You Need To Eat...
Francesca Annoni 7 years ago (edited)
I did the same the first month of my son.. I put a cushion under my maternity pillow (the one with C shape) ..I was breastfeeding him with a napkin on his back while eating my lunch at home..if he sleeps you sleep..if he eats you eat.. it was survival..
Erin Sheppard 7 years ago
I have done this, except, I sat baby on the table and used BOTH hands to eat. lol
#21
Parenting Done Right
Sue Edwards-Catt 7 years ago
My family still tries to talk to me when I am listening to my music. 😠
athornedrose 7 years ago
someone needs to read the how snooping ensures your child will never talk to you again: https://www.boredpanda.com/parent-children-privacy-online/
Victor Skimmeland 6 years ago
I need hearing aids so just pretend they’re not in. Works every time. Using disability to my advantage.
HoffLensMetalHedLovesAnimalsUK 7 years ago
I live my life doing this, on public transport, in the supermarket, its great for pretending you are oblivious to the rest of the world.
#22
When You Go Out, Color Code Your Brood. Makes It Easier To Spot Them In The Crowd
Sleep Meister 7 years ago
We did this once, didn't realise it was St Patricks day.......never seen little Jimmy again
Amanda Panda 7 years ago
This is a good idea. I also tie balloons to my toddler nephews. It's easy to spot them when they inevitably dart into a crowd.
Lisa Keller-Fawcett 7 years ago
My Mom would always sew shirts of the same material for me & my siblings when we went to places like Disney.
#23
Use Bottle Nipple As Medicine Dispenser
#24
If You Have A Kid With A Walker, Use Pool Noodles As Bumpers To Save Your Walls And Ankles
SunflowersAreGold 7 years ago
When I first saw the picture, I thought it was to allow the baby to float in a pool......
Me 7 years ago
Or better, don't use a walker, it's not good for child development. They will learn to walk when it is time to, a walker can cause serious damage to hips and posture
Vicky Zar 6 years ago
Where do you live? They think about this in Germany right now.
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Kim Carpenter 7 years ago
Don't use a walker. They delay development and can result in tragedy. Our pediatrician warned us against them because one of his patients toppled down a short flight of stairs and ended up paralyzed from the neck down.
Ruth Hempsey 7 years ago
I thought these walkers were banned because of babies going down stairs etc. 😕
#25
Clean Non-Electronic Plastic Toys In A Dishwasher
Kwj 7 years ago
Or Lego's in a pillowcase or washingbag with a zipper and into the washingmachine on a wool programe :D
Cassie 7 years ago
If you do the Legos in a pillow case with a zipper, also tie a knot in the pillow case after you zip it closed. Legos can knock the zipper open and that's not good for your washer. Don't ask me how I know...
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Brivid 7 years ago
Close the hole on rubber duckies with hot glue. This prevents the inside from getting mildew on the inside.
Beeps 7 years ago
That's one of the most helpful hints I have read in a long time. Thanks, Brivid!
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Carol Norcross 7 years ago
I have actually done this. NOTE: Turn off the heat dry unless you are absolutely sure the plastic won't melt.
Xiaolaohu 7 years ago
Anything hollow like the doll will be liable to keep water trapped inside and that can lead to mold, otherwise who doesn't do this already?
Martha Riche 7 years ago
Mold is definitely any issue with the hollow toys, lots of those super popular giraffes wound up in the trash due to mold.
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your name 7 years ago
Don't do that thatll melt them. I saw a pic on here a while ago and everything they washed was warped and skewed.
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Tim Douglass 7 years ago
Would do this with all the toys from the church nursery - especially if there was a sick kid in there!
#26
Bring Crayons To The Doctor When Your Kids Have A Check Up. It Keeps Everyone Distracted During Wait Times
Kendra Parker 7 years ago
My mom always did this. It's one of my favorite memories because it felt sort of like getting to write on a wall without getting trouble.
Electric isopod 7 years ago
And when they get older bring an activity book. I’m old school and prefer my child not to have a tablet or smart phone.
Nostalgic Hyena 6 years ago
Sometimes they have this kind of stuff in doctors' offices for kids. I go to an all-ages dentist and they have coloring books in a corner.
triumvarate complete 7 years ago
Sometimes the doctor's office would have crayons and i'd steal them from the waiting room and do this
#27
Sprinkle Some Cinnamon In A Sandbox To Keep Bugs Away
Israel Martinez 7 years ago
This made me chuckle more than I should have ...
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Brenda Fetterly 7 years ago
I worked in a daycare over a decade and learned first hand that a lot of children break out from cinn.and it causes a burning feeling
CrunChewy McSandybutt 7 years ago
How much? Because I'd imagine this would lead to burning eyes.
karen snyder 7 years ago
RED ALERT... I would be seriously concerned about how that affects children. First off, young children already put everything in their mouth; candy scented sand would be a little too tempting. (I've been around for kids eating cinnamon soap and candles, and other, less "family friendly" cinnamon flavored items.) Secondly, cinnamon burns even adult skin and eyes, this is unnecessary tot-torture. And, finally, even CostCo cinnamon, used long term, isn't as cheap as a pup-tent, (in the shade,) or other enclosed sandbox, made for keeping out bugs. This is either a Joke or a Fail, but def not a Hack...
Devin Robinson 7 years ago
Actually, it's perfectly safe for the little ones. While cinnamon by itself is not suitable for children to play with, cinnamon mixed with sand does not smell too enticing to children and should not burn the skin when mixed with sand.
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Cyd Charisse 7 years ago
Add a little brown sugar and cornstarch, tuck some cloves behind your kids ears....
Marlowe Fitzpatrik 7 years ago
Well, the BUGS aren't the problem in the sandbox... And I don't think cinnamon works against cats.
#28
In A Super Pinch, Suitcase Can Double As A Sleeper
Xiaolaohu 7 years ago
Agreed, that blanket could cover baby's mouth, still like the idea, just need a tightly sheep covered pad for the bottom instead of that blanket.
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Rich Auntie Skeleton 7 years ago
My mom used to do this with my little brother back in the 80's when we visited my grandma! :)
Bored Fox 7 years ago
Here in Finland most newborn babies sleep in a cardboard box (maternity package). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maternity_package
Lara L. 7 years ago
My sisters baby refused to sleep on her back. After birth she cried for so long, that the nurse "allowed" my sister to turn the baby on the belly - instant asleep. Sudden infant death syndrome (is that correct in english- in german it is only 2 words) is usually a risk- thingy for children younger than 5 months- after that it is really not uncommon. And if you look at the children who die from sids, almost all of the had additional problems like asthma
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Amanda Panda 7 years ago
My car seat was a cooler with the lid propped open as a baby... Ahhh, simpler times.
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
I slept in a dresser drawer. Pull it out of the dresser, set it on the floor, with a baby safe pad on the bottom.
SkyTheImaginer 7 years ago
Good idea but flip that baby over for god sakes, I've seen what SIDS does to people, it's not a happy sight, decreasing the possibility of SIDS is a very smart tactic.
#29
Use Shoe Storage Bag To Store And Organize Legos By Color
lincholn6echo 7 years ago
thats boring to me. Better have a huge pile of legos to dive and dig in, thats the life^^
Rhon 7 years ago
Oh I’m with you there! We had a huge box of LEGO which was noisy and so much fun!
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Basil 7 years ago
Yeah yeah yeah, and tomatoes are a fruit. We know, but sometimes common sense trumps stupid rules! LEGO is a made-up corporate brand name, let us, the consumers, decide how we want to use it!
Load More Replies... Marlowe Fitzpatrik 7 years ago
What? Whoever has that little amount of Lego? We'd have needed more walls in the house if we'd had to put the lego in these little pockets :D
Jennifer Biness 7 years ago
can't even get my kids to put toys in big baskets, they're supposed to color-code their legos? yeah, right
VeryDarkMatter 7 years ago
I prefered the chaotic lego box I had as a kid. This is too.. uncreative.
Biana Weatherford 7 years ago
Yes, please restrict that creative mind. You can't tell me that the parent won't be the one sorting.
Brenda Pereira 7 years ago
That's a great idea, but not based in reality. The parent would have to go in and sort them because kids sure won't. Believe it or not, when my grandson got too old and didn't want to play with them anymore, we got moving boxes and put the Legos in there. After we were done, we had almost 200 lb of legos. And, I still have 3 large moving boxes full at my dad's!
Warmaster Tsavong 7 years ago
My mother tried to make me sort my Lego collection into bins by color when I was a kid. Unfortunately for her, she wanted me to do the work myself, so I just waited her out for a few months until she gave up. Digging around for an hour to find a single piece is the way to go.
#30
Disposable Gloves Hack
Basil 7 years ago
OMG, I remember that from the 90s in Wisconsin. My feet would get all sweaty and slide around in the bag in the boots. Hard to maintain steady footing. Parents didn't make me and brother do it anymore after we complained.
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Bonita Bielawski 7 years ago
People should stop using so much disposable plastic. Wasteful! This planet doesn't need more disposed plastic.
Mel Dempsey 7 years ago
Yes, more plastic waste for the landfills, waterways and oceans. Use them once, throw them away jus like every other useless piece of plastic. 🙄
Winter Caliguri 6 years ago
This is insanely wasteful. Just get wet or use waterproof gloves! I hate that anyone would advocate for creating this much trash!
Aria FAFAT 6 years ago
That wastes a lot! You should instead get reusable ones meant for snow.
Jack Loomis 7 years ago
If it's so expensive go to a goodwill and pick up gloves like a normal person, you kids will look horrible too.
KT Trondsen 7 years ago
except that is absolutely horrible for the planet and extremely wasteful use of plastic. I doubt this keeps fingers warm enough in snow. Just buy proper gloves
KT Trondsen 7 years ago
Agreed. Cheapness trumping common sense for the planet once again
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#31
Painting The Fire Station Floor
Sue Burrison 7 years ago
I used to give my kids paint brushes to "paint" the outer door or sidewalk with water.
Basil 7 years ago
What a pointless chore though. Scrubbing outdoor concrete with plain water? What is the point of this? It doesn't even look dirty here. This just looks like the kind of c**p thought up by the kind of people who just like to make kids work.
Alexis O'Cady 7 years ago
It's...not a chore? It's actually something kids find pretty cool and fun. The water changes the color of the concrete, so they can get creative and paint pictures and things, and they're being allowed to play and splash with water, which all the kids I've known have found super fun.
Load More Replies... #32
A Frozen Sponge In A Ziplock Is The Perfect Way To Keep Kids Lunches Cold
Lime 7 years ago
That's actually such a good idea! Thanks, i think I'll do this with my own lunch, haha.
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Elise Williams 7 years ago
This also is good for those bumps on the head or bruised arms or legs.
#33
Does Anyone Else Use The Bathtub (Minus Water) As A Play Pen When Having A Shower?
brandon sat 7 years ago
this doesn't work when your babies are able to turn on the water in the bath tub and you don't want them to
Aahzmandus Pervect 7 years ago
Or when you don't have a separate shower. :)
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Marlowe Fitzpatrik 7 years ago
hmmmm. Only works if your kid isn't a freedom-loving little monkey who would climb (and fall) right out onto the tiles.
Electric isopod 7 years ago
But you have enough room in your bathroom to put an actual playpen (which is safer) in? Hack fail.
Erin Sheppard 7 years ago
All the time. I like to give them home made finger paint, then when I get out of the shower, they take a bath to get the paint off.
Jack Loomis 7 years ago
I don't think that that is really a hack if you have to get the paint off, and it probably won't all come off anyway. In between your shower and the kids bath, your tub looks like complete physcodelic garbage...
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Roxy Eastland 6 years ago
That's a huge bathroom! Imagine having a shower separate to the bath. Wow.
#34
Mom Tip: Yogurt Plus Food Coloring = Safe Edible Paint
Ola Polowczyk 7 years ago
I don't think it is a good idea. You should teach your kid not to eat paint.
Pamela24 7 years ago
You can still do that with the yogurt paint but you won't have to worry if they eat some no matter your instructions.
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Gryffindor4ever 7 years ago
I can't imagine those paintings would smell too good after a while :/
Marlowe Fitzpatrik 7 years ago
You can make your own finger-paint from starch and water and food-coloring. It would also teach your child that paint isn't edible and tastes awful, but it won't spoil and also isn't toxic. So... no to the yoghurt. (also, dammit, don't waste precious yoghurt!)
Neurotic_Octopus 7 years ago
God, imagine the smell when they smear it on something (like furniture) that is hard to wash...
Carmen Elena 7 years ago
I´m not sure about this. They might think they can eat any kind of paint they´re using.
Taylor reynolds 6 years ago
This is awesome!! You can still tell the child “no, we don’t eat this” if they attempt, but at the same time, you don’t have to worry about them being poisoned if they do put it to their mouth!! Using this!
#35
Put Up A “Spy Window”. Very Time You Want To Check On The Kids You Won't Need To Go All The Way Down The Stairs
GB1997 7 years ago
I don't really get this one. I mean how many of us have spaces we can perfectly place a mirror to 'spy' on children? What if the children aren't in view of the spy hole? Surely the easiest option is too just walk down the stairs lol
LOttawa 7 years ago
Agreed. In my house I would have to put a mirrror that reflects off a mirror that reflects off another mirror and so on... People would think that I'm extremel vain, loll.
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The Girl on Fire 7 years ago
But the second the kid goes out of view of that window, that "hack" is useless..
ZombieGirl5591 7 years ago (edited)
not really...you have to hook it up somehow to be able to watch them on a monitor...it seems much easier to just have a mirror there to go take a peek when you feel like it
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karen snyder 7 years ago
Here is an example of how this can be helpful. My Mother let us watch TV after homework, while she made dinner. To be sure we were always watching approved channels without leaving her cooking, (this was before parental settings,) she hung a mirror on the wall opposite the TV, visible from the stove. No MTV for me.
Sandra Simpson 5 years ago
Or you could tell the kids that using that window, you are able to see them at all times because of magic.
weatherwitch 7 years ago
Before the days of CCTV we did the mirror trick at work to keep an eye on the upstairs room of our shop. It's a way to observe what's going on quietly and at very little cost. In this above scenario if mum crept down the stairs they'd hear her or see her but this way they can play thinking they're not being watched 😃
#36
Put A Paper Sheet In A Ziplock Bag Together With Some Paint And Let Your Child "Paint" Mess-Free
SunflowersAreGold 7 years ago
I do this now! It's nice and simple, though I wouldn't say it's completely mess free.
brandon sat 7 years ago
i assume that the bag comes open during the painting or your kid chews on the bag?
Load More Replies... Xina Imad 7 years ago
years ago i worked with very young children and there were several who already at 1 yr and a half were disgusted by the idea of touching paint or getting dirty. Don't know the cause for it but I would encourage getting dirty and enjoying the empirical and tactile fun that is finger painting. I am an artist and I can tell you my love for painting started (as captured by photos) before i could even talk properly. I am glad my parents encouraged that kind of creativity and exploration of the world.
Blue Cicada 7 years ago
Yes, but in parenting and the classroom, you need to have a variety of projects in your trick bag. Sometimes you truly need a mess free activity. You are absolutely correct, however, that the fine motor skills practice and tactile experience are crucial to child development. Side note: Of all the students with whom I've worked, the one who hated getting her fingers dirty and sticky the most is the one whose parents owned an art gallery!
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Corina Alvarez Loeblich 7 years ago
or put them in the garden or some floor easy to clean and let them.. you know.. get a little messy and let them be just kids painting?
#37
Attach A Sippy Cup To Your Kid’s Car Seat. This Way You Won't Have To Turn Around And Pick It Up Every Time Your Kid Drops It
Yukobuz 7 years ago
If the kid drops it he can use the rope to pull it back up on his own
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Cassie 7 years ago
My kids learned pretty quickly not to throw their cups down because I did not pick it up and give it back to them. If they threw it down in a store, I'd pick it up, but not give it back. If they threw it down in the car, they didn't get it back, especially if I was driving. I don't remember my kids ever throwing their stuff down more than a couple times before they figured it out and we didn't have to deal with that issue anymore.
Amanda Panda 7 years ago
These are great. My nephews LOVED throwing their bottles for Daddy to pick up. It's cute about twice. These bungies saved a lot of bending over and loud clattering noise at restaurants.
#38
Knit A Childproof Door Knob Cover To Avoid Getting Locked Out Or To Keep Children Away Of Entering Certain Rooms
Pamela24 7 years ago
That's crocheted... (Sorry...I crochet so it makes me a bit of an annoying nerd in the department.)
Rhon 7 years ago
I know right! I’m a knitter and if I search for knitting patterns on Pinterest it always comes up with more crochet than knitting!
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A Rose Among Thorns 7 years ago
unless you used tape there would be no way to open the door without the cover just pointlessy sliding and rotating while you try to twist the handle but get nowhere
A Dyke From The Dreamworld 7 years ago
When you try to twist it, you only twist the cozy and not the doorknob itself.
Load More Replies... #39
Ask Your Keiki For A Toy They Want The 'Switch Witch' To Bring Them. Halloween Night When They Go To Bed All Their Candy Goes Next To Their Pillow. Switch Witch Arrives While They're Sleeping And Switches Their Candy For The Toy
tuzdayschild 7 years ago
Me too. I don't eat candy like that all year long. Just let me have Halloween.
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GB1997 7 years ago
confused... why spend money when they literally got all those sweets for free? Just give them to your child in small doses if you seriously can't take them having that much sweets ONCE A YEAR
Stille20 7 years ago
It's a moment to teach a kid about self control and delayed gratification, which very important for producing functional adults.
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Basil 7 years ago
Don't do this. Please don't do this. Halloween is a vital holiday that can teach kids so much. Like- being safe around strangers, having good manners, being independent, sharing, and moderation (as well as splurging being OK now and then). It teaches kids that being scared is OK sometimes and how to process those emotions. It can also promote exercise!! Plus, for little kids it's their first chance to earn something and things like picking what they want to eat or trade promotes decision making. Meeting neighbors and being a part of your local community is also a huge part of Halloween. Don't do insular trunk or treat stuff. Don't take away or demonize the candy or the scary stuff. Halloween is a really special thing that needs more respect for how important it can be for kids development. This kind of c**p makes me really sad. (And . . . I think trading candy for a Barbie of all things is pretty ironic as well.)
KT Trondsen 7 years ago
meh, candy is better! Let them be kids. Toys come soon enough at christmas
Sue Bentley 7 years ago
Let the kid have candy. The switch witch seems like a dirty trick Mom. It's once a year. Lighten up.
Sheila Weila 7 years ago
Who wants to teach your child that a witch sneaks into their bedroom at night? NOT ME!!!!
Full Name 7 years ago
So the tooth fairy gives them nothing as well? You monster!
Load More Replies... Kim Carpenter 7 years ago
Or just limit their candy intake. This is just more pressure for parents to spend money on toys their kids don't need.
Amanda Panda 7 years ago
This is great, then you can dole out the candy slowly instead of having a comatose kid the day after Halloween.
#40
When Getting Out Of The Car By A Road Or In A Car Park, Ask Your Child To Touch ‘The Spot’ Aka The Fuel Cover Thingy! Especially Helpful For Anyone With Multiple Children Trying To Get Everyone Out Of The Car!
r3dd3v1lL 7 years ago
I don't get this one? What if the fuel cover is on the side of the road?
Henlo 6 years ago
Just because u can't pump ur own gas doesn't mean gasoline will get everywhere
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Samanthe Carswell 2 years ago
When I had four little ones I used something similar to this idea they had to put their hands on the car and spread their legs oh like if they were under arrest so I could get everybody safely in their car seats
Rebecca Kinnell 3 years ago
I had 4 children in 5 years. I put my hand print in the dust/dirt on my car at the right height and they found the right one and stayed there. fun game that befuddled my husband for a long time till I shared my secret.
SkyTheImaginer 7 years ago
Almost all cars has locked gas doors that need to be opened from INSIDE the car.
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Sometimes I Have To Disguise Oatmeal Within A Banana To Get My Child To Eat. He’s Been Eating The Same Bite Of Banana And New Oatmeal This Whole Time
Randomcthulu 7 years ago
My mother just made sure to run certain things thoroughly through the food processor, we wouldn't eat identifiable chunks of onion for example
Roxy Eastland 7 years ago
I don't even understand this one. Someone hollowed out a banana and filled it with porridge? While porridge is a great food, cheap yet nourishing and easy to prepare, if your kid really, really doesn't like it then move on. Or try stirring chopped banana into the porridge so it's banana flavoured 'dessert' or something.
Magpie 7 years ago
Relax, no otherwise-healthy child will starve to death. At meal time if they do not want to eat *relax* " see you at next meal time*. If they are hungry between meals allow them to have slices of bread ( nothing on it ). Grit your teeth through the whinging. It only takes a few repeats, and they will be eating at meals.
Greta Hoostal 6 years ago
Some cannot chew. 1 of mine couldn’t chew anything until 20 mos old. Gagged & threw up a lot. Didn’t understand chewing. Had to be on only strained purées & baby cereal. At 20 mos she could have strained purées w/ added soft lumps, & slivers of cheese & soft fruit. At 2 yrs she could have baby puffs, crackers, the softest toddler food, & non-smooth purées. Now she’s 3½ & can eat most things, but won’t chew meat except if it’s lunch-meat in a sandwich. Starvation would be possible w/ all textures being difficult. I notice when I read about famines, I think the children, being pickier, die 1st & eventually adults can be driven insane w/ hunger & eat the corpses. It seems to be what’s going on in Deuteronomy: Thou shalt be besieged within thy gates in all thy land which the Lord thy God will give thee: And thou shalt eat the fruit of thy womb, and the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, etc. (28:52b,53) And I think it happened in the Holodomor & the Siege of Leningrad.
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Crazy Dog Lady 7 years ago
I think this is a hack to see how dumb your kids are. If they don't notice they're eating oatmeal....
brandon sat 7 years ago
so many of these "parenting hacks" are just horrible, including this one. who ever posted this must not have kids
#42
Teach A Child To Hold A Pencil Using A Kleenex
Alexandru Bucur 7 years ago
I Agree with Sunflowers. This grip is tortuous. It could be I've been conditioned by two decades of drawing, but I can't help but hold my pencil using only two fingers - either thumb/index, thumb/middle or index/middle and, in each case, the other fingers are used as support, so they're in contact with the surface I'm drawing/writing on, not the palm. Frankly, I think it's a mistake to teach a child a single, "proper", pencil grip. Let them experiment with it and find their own. It's the same as forcing left-handed people to write their right, because that's the "proper" way, because it might mess with their perception of right and left. Both my dad and girlfriend are left-handed and have been forced to use their right for writing in school, so I know this one from experience. It gets especially visible when they're tired or unattentive - you tell them to turn right and they unthinkingly turn left.
makenzie stephenson 7 years ago
Yes i hold mine with four fingers i get weird looks, i am also ambidextrous so with my right hand i use the "funny way" but with the left its the "normal way" so usually just use my left
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tuzdayschild 7 years ago
I just don't remember learning to use a pencil being all that difficult that I needed aids to assist me.
Taryn Wallace 7 years ago
No no no no no let them hold the pen however is comfortable!!!! I never held the pen correctly and I still have great handwritings! I HATED those stupid plastic things that were put on pencils to make my grip correct I can't stand this why do we all have to hold the pencil the same way
Amanda Kirby 7 years ago
This doesn't apply to many children, but here's something to consider: despite having elegant handwriting as an adult, I could not (and cannot) hold a pencil this way. As a child this position would cause me a great deal of pain. It turned out later it was straining the tendons in my hands and fingers (I have a connective tissue disorder). I also have a friend who had JRA, and was unable to hold a pencil this way as well. Please, please, please pay attention if your child is struggling with this. It would have saved me years of scolding and pain from teachers if someone would have just intervened on behalf of me and my medical condition.
Caroline Huot 7 years ago
Or let them hold it whichever way they want. Don't have to conform, just like left handers used to be obligated to conform and become right handers. As long as they can write, who cares. My daughter is 17 and in college and has never held her pen the 'proper' way... who cares!
r3dd3v1lL 7 years ago
Do people hold pens like this? I just tried and I don't actually fold the two fingers, with them folded it's not comfortable to write.
Ladies and Gentlemen 7 years ago
If you already know how to hold pen like this, its not comfortable. But while teaching kids they need understand that which fingers to use, hence folding of other two!
Load More Replies... LeilaOdinis 7 years ago (edited)
Not everyone holds their writing implements the same way. It is how ever they are comfortable holding the pen/pencil. I would never force them to do this. They will figure it out on their own. Penmanship is individual. If it helps them, go for it. Otherwise, let them find their happy medium. I hated school for the fact they pushed me to hold my pen a certain way. I always thought it was a way of the teachers forcing me to do it the way they wanted. I didn't want. They claimed my hand writing was messy. Na, just me. I have thick calluses on my fingers that were different from my father's ( He was left handed, while I am right handed) with distinct curvature.
Greta Hoostal 6 years ago
Even worse are those triangular things teachers put over your pencils in lower grades. They made it much harder to hold the pencil. I was holding the pencil w/ fingertips & thumbtip away from the rest of the hand, so the grip was a fulcrum & the pencil was a wobbly lever. It was the same teacher who taught about simple machines! Since the PRINCIPLES of the simple machines weren’t taught, I didn’t recognize the levering function & didn’t realize the side of my hand was supposed to be a fulcrum & the fingers holding down the lever. And my dad complained when my thumb was hooked over a pencil. That gave it extra stability.
#43
Use Shopping Cart Restraints To Secure Your Toddler's Sippy Cup
Paladin 7 years ago
It's the 'norm' in the US. I, for one, have rarely seen a strap long enough to go around both my child AND their sippy cup!
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tuzdayschild 7 years ago
Warning: This tip is absolutely not for germaphobes. You just know that strap has been through some stuff.
LUISANGEL ANAYA 7 years ago
I thought they were called seat belts. Also, won't this damage your child's posture? (neck, since they have to look down to drink)
Martha Riche 7 years ago
This would never work with my grandson, he would grab his cup and throw it into the cart or on the floor! The kid loves to throw everything, and he's got a hell of an arm, lol
Philippa Phillips 7 years ago
Most trolleys with a seat in them in Australia have restraints too. If you have a newborn they even have a capsule type seat too! If you have twins they allow for that too!
Ruth Hempsey 7 years ago
Canada, all shopping carts have two black woven straps with plastic snap together fasteners attached to bars at the back of the child seat. I'm a great granny but still use them to go through my handbag carrying straps to stop it from being snatched.
karen snyder 7 years ago
Can we please just call it a seatbelt? Jr looks a little young for BDS&M.
#44
Carry An ‘Out Of Order’ Sign In Your Wallet At All Times In Case You Encounter An Unexpected Delay Machine
Alusair Alustriel 7 years ago
Or just teach yourt kid that "No" means "No" and they will get to ride it another time.
Kelly 7 years ago
Of course, since we were told to call apples 'french fries'.
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Rocky Joe 7 years ago
Or put the sign on your wallet permanently to avoid spending too much on stuff kids demanded. LoL
A Dyke From The Dreamworld 7 years ago
If you get in a power struggle with a toddler, I think that's a problem on your end. Tell them that no means no and don't advocate lying. I don't have kids but these tricks will probably teach your kids that lying gets your way.
Roxy Eastland 6 years ago
It doesn't have to be 'struggle' where you face your small child down with a forceful 'I said no and I mean no'. If you haven't got the requisite 50p, for example, you haven't got it. Or if you've got to keep moving because you've other tasks to get done, then you've got to keep going. You can explain this kindly and say it's a shame. If it's just a parent that has the time and the money but is saying no because they just don't want their child to have the experience then they might want to take another look at what they think their child is learning from this (e.g. the person that is physically stronger or holds the financial power gets to dictate what happens without any reasonable explanation).
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Katie King 7 years ago
Or let your kid ride the train because one day they will be too big and you will miss it.
Melisa K. 7 years ago
Seriously !! My little one gets a ride at least once a week on these things and he absolutely LOVES it, and seeing the pure joy he experiences is 11100000% worth the 3 minutes I lose out of my day.
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What do you think ?
Shelley Degagne 7 years ago
I thinlk the bathtub as a playpen is a terrible idea, the child could turn on the water and drown or the hot water on and be scalded.
Mont 7 years ago
I think they are saying to do that only when the parent is in the same room showering, so they should be paying attention the whole time.
Load More Replies... LUISANGEL ANAYA 7 years ago (edited)
some of these aren't safe to do. I'm a teenager with a baby sister and I've learned some "Parenting Hacks" along the way. All I'm saying is that there are safer ways to entertain your kid(s). You just have to teach your kid(s) that no means no and to listen to their parents on most of these.
LUISANGEL ANAYA 7 years ago
I don't mean to offend any parents with this. Some of the Hacks looked really helpful and I would like to try them too.
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Lisa Mitchell 6 years ago (edited)
No matter what u do someone has something to say If it doesn't work for u don't use it. Simple No need for sarky comments . Good ideas and should be fun to try. Giving tips for kids...maybe u shud put some up for dealing with rude adults
Dawn Murphy 7 years ago
Most of these are for IF you are in a pinch. Let's not make it out to be more than that.
Live Free 7 years ago
All I can say hun, is just make sure you have your life in order fist, the right man, money, college, house, job. Life can get really hard with a baby at a young age. I know! My first I was 18 and my second I was 19. And do understand if you like partying with friends all the time than wait till you at least past your 21st birthday. I'm not saying you can't go out every once in awhile but people shouldn't have kids and be out every night. Best of luck and do what makes you happy but remember a little persons life will be in your hands :)
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Shelley Degagne 7 years ago
I thinlk the bathtub as a playpen is a terrible idea, the child could turn on the water and drown or the hot water on and be scalded.
Mont 7 years ago
I think they are saying to do that only when the parent is in the same room showering, so they should be paying attention the whole time.
Load More Replies... LUISANGEL ANAYA 7 years ago (edited)
some of these aren't safe to do. I'm a teenager with a baby sister and I've learned some "Parenting Hacks" along the way. All I'm saying is that there are safer ways to entertain your kid(s). You just have to teach your kid(s) that no means no and to listen to their parents on most of these.
LUISANGEL ANAYA 7 years ago
I don't mean to offend any parents with this. Some of the Hacks looked really helpful and I would like to try them too.
Load More Replies... Lisa Mitchell 6 years ago (edited)
No matter what u do someone has something to say If it doesn't work for u don't use it. Simple No need for sarky comments . Good ideas and should be fun to try. Giving tips for kids...maybe u shud put some up for dealing with rude adults
Dawn Murphy 7 years ago
Most of these are for IF you are in a pinch. Let's not make it out to be more than that.
Live Free 7 years ago
All I can say hun, is just make sure you have your life in order fist, the right man, money, college, house, job. Life can get really hard with a baby at a young age. I know! My first I was 18 and my second I was 19. And do understand if you like partying with friends all the time than wait till you at least past your 21st birthday. I'm not saying you can't go out every once in awhile but people shouldn't have kids and be out every night. Best of luck and do what makes you happy but remember a little persons life will be in your hands :)
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