How do you get everything done?

[wigwam33]

As the message says really. I'm after your top time-saving tips, systems and 'cheats'.

I only have two small children and struggle to get everything done. I know I need to improve my systems as I'm not a systems person at all. I have to cook everything from scratch due to allergies so that takes time, though I'm getting faster. So please give me your best tips and tricks.

I try to get them to keep all their toys in one main room. I do a wash every day so not piling up. DH does the early start with the kids while I get ready for the day and air beds etc. He gives them pre breakfast toast and we let them watch milkshake while I prep our lunches. I find going out of the house every morning limits their destructive capability, plus a busy morning usually means a good afternoon nap.

A food processor and giant slow cooker has helped no end with batch cooking.

As they get older they entertain each other better. I try not to go running at the first shout of "mum!" I figure they need to learn to try and problem solve.

Be a bit strict too, if they start chucking food about or purposely making a mess they get told off and have to help tidy up.

Oh and if they really want to do painting or playdoh and the thought of doing it sends shivers down your spine, make them put their toys away first. That way you know they really want to do it and not just going to lob it about for 5 minutes leaving you with extra mess to tidy up. Plus the other toys won't be out messing with your head either.

It is ough but basically I don't piss about on the Internet for hours at a time. When you free up that time that perhaps you might spend on Facebook, Twitter, pin etc it is astonishing how much time there is in the day to get stuff done

I tidy up immediately after stuff. A deposit bath time is a very long affair because a) they love it and b) I whip around with the hoover and put away the laundry.

Thanks for all your replies and especially the solidarity. Typical of me - post then go offline for 4 days due to DS birthday weekend!

It's the washing and tidying that I struggle with. I can't keep up with putting it all away (currently there are 5 ikea bags waiting). We seem to be on about 1.5-2washes/day but then my DD is at that age where she gets through more than one outfit in a day, every day. Come to think of it, so does my DH as he cycles 8miles to work and back each day, so generally has 2 outfits. The tidying too. 5 mins and my DD has emptied an entire cupboard while I'm cooking.

I'm on a mission to reduce everything and also to make sure we have a place for absolutely every single thing in the hope that it will help matters. DS has just had a birthday so I'm secretly giving away unplayed with toys!

I have been on a mission to reduce the vast amount of stuff in our house and it has made a huge difference.
I even went through the kids' wardrobes and got rid of about a third of their clothes - stuff that still fitted them. It means I have to keep on top of the washing but there is less sorting and more space so I can see what they've actually got.