13 San Gen Survival Ideas

In recognition of Sandwich Generation month, the KYSS post for today is designed to provide survival ideas for Sandwich Mamas. Of course, any busy mom could benefit from simplifying everyday tasks so I hope you will find some tips that help!

1. Book it! If you have to run the kids to the library for a research project, take Mom or Dad with you. They may enjoy getting some reading material or videos as well. 
2. Take a “YOU” break! Schedule an appointment to be kind to yourself. Have a manicure, curl up with a good book, take a 20-minute catnap or enjoy a warm bubble bath. Taking care of yourself will energize you.  
3. Map it! If you are juggling multiple generations, you cannot afford to waste driving time. Before venturing out on your errands, map the route first or invest in a GPS system.
4. Schedule the sitters in advance. As soon as you know of an appointment that you need to attend with a parent, stop and secure a sitter right away. This will avoid last minute stress. 
5. Hired help. Consider hiring a teenager to take care of small jobs for you. They can run errands, sit with your parent while you take care of some business or entertain the kids so you can focus on your duties.
6. Movie time. Ask Mom or Dad to take the kids to a movie. This will give you a couple of hours of uninterrupted time. 
7. Create a “Job Jar”. On small cards or paper, write or type out small household jobs. Place the cards into a jar and encourage your parent(s), spouse and children to grab a card from the Job Jar. This will help minimize your workload. 
8. Schedule a night off. Make some popcorn, rent a movie and snuggle with your family.
9. Take a walk. When you are feeling overwhelmed, stop and take a brisk walk around the block.
10. Shopping plan. If possible, make a plan to avoid grocery shopping or banking during busy times such as lunch hours or weekends. You can also avoid long lines at the post office by ordering your stamps online www.usps.com.
11. Barter. Trade off babysitting with a friend.  Keep in mind you will have some uninterrupted time when it is her turn!
12. Use your timer. Instead of getting lost in a project or task, use your timer to remind you when it is time to stop.
13. Carpools. Consider creating a carpool for school or elderly transports. It will save you time, energy and fuel costs. You can also contact a senior center for information on senior bus services.

“Keep Your Sandwich Simple” (KYSS) is designed to help you simplify your regular house or family tasks so you can better manage the addition of parent care. Be sure to check out my KYSS page for all of the simplifying posts!

xoxo Paula

Help me with this list! What other tactics can help make a Sandwich Mama’s life easier??