The Smart Mums Guide to Saving Time, Money and Stress

The first time around, being a mum means learning a lot of new things and approaching each new stage with caution. The second time around, mums know that sometimes you need to wing it and embrace the imperfections (and humour) of parenthood.

Through this experience, mums learn some amazing time-saving, stress-busting and mind-blowing parenting tricks. Want to know the best time-tested strategies? Here are seven genius hacks from those who've been around the mommy block a few times.
Smart snack storage
There's no need to buy expensive snack food containers for all the kiddo's goodies. When you're done with your coffee creamer, simply remove labels, wash and fill with your favourite dry snacks. These handy containers are a breeze to pop open and pour into bowls, plus the upright bottle maximises space in cabinets.
Cut car chaos
If you have kids, you know all about car clutter, but this doesn't have to be your reality. A canvas shoe organiser in the back seat is a fantastic way to store toys and supplies. Next, eliminate spills by placing silicone cupcake liners into cup holders. Finally, a tackle box is ideal for creating a food travel kit with various snacks in each compartment.
Streamline grocery shopping
A trip to the grocery store doesn't have to be a disaster with kids in tow. First, eat before you shop. Empty tummies make for grumpy kids who want everything in sight. Next, to keep kids focused on the task at hand, let them be shopping assistants. Bigger kids can help get foods on your list (how about a grocery store scavenger hunt?) and little ones can assist by holding a small item safely and helping you spot foods from the cart (who sees a red apple for mommy?).
Simplify dressing
If you dread putting onesies over your baby's head, you can breathe a sigh of relief because there's an easier approach. Those layered shoulder tabs on onesies mean you can stretch the neck out and dress baby from the bottom up. When it's time to undress, simply pull down. No more wiggling, crabby baby.
Streamline midnight feeding
Don't lose precious Z's because it's feeding time. Keep the baby in 'sleep zone' with little-to-no light and refrain from talking. Light and mums' voices are extremely stimulating to babies. Another smart idea: change their diapers first, just in case they fall asleep while eating - then you can lay them down and get back to bed quickly.
Inventive cold packs
From babies to toddlers to big kids, boo-boos are a fact of life. For little bumps, a mini-marshmallow ice pack is a fun way to make ouchies feel better. Mini marshmallows are lightweight, soft and hold the perfect amount of cold; all you have to do is place them in a plastic bag, seal and keep in the freezer.
Keep small hands clean
There's no need to strain your back holding your kid up so he can reach the sink to wash his hands. An empty shampoo bottle can easily transform into a handy faucet extender. Ditch the cap and cut a hole on the bottom to hook to the faucet. Secure on the spout and the water will extend out so it's within a child's reach.
Experienced mums know more, know better and know that clever tips and tricks can help save time and money. That means less stress plus more time and energy to create lasting memories with the little loves of your life.