Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Early Hours Critical

BARBARA A. HOLT, PhD.

CLARK COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES

COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICES

When you get to work, are you already frazzled? Is your attitude and work performance affected by the morning chaos that occurs at home, trying to get you and your family out the door to face another challenging day? Perhaps you need help managing those crucial morning hours.

Why not try some of these ten suggestions given by Easter Tucker, family and consumer sciences specialist, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas. This advice may help you and your family avoid the morning rush at home.

Start going to bed earlier. It may take your body a few weeks to adapt to retiring earlier, but in the long run, it will be easier for you to rise at an earlier time.

Organize supplies for the following day. It's a good idea to place near the door your keys, briefcase, purse, school supplies, important papers and letters to be mailed. Keep a petty cash fund handy for all those times that a quarter, 75 cents or $11.45 is needed for school or something else.

Choose clothing for the next day. Decide what you are going to wear the next day, and lay it out or have in mind what you plan to wear. Make sure those things are clean, pressed and ready to wear. Morning dressing becomes hassle free.

Get out of bed at least 1+ hours before leaving for work. A few minutes added to your preparation time can prevent frantic dressing, no breakfast and forgotten tasks that need to be done before leaving.

Be the first one up. Time alone in the morning without bumping into others or being interrupted can be just what you need to get yourself together.

Have children and spouse make their own lunches if they carry them to work or school with them. If your children are old enough, let them prepare their lunches to save you time and get them involved in food preparation.

Involve your spouse in morning tasks. Have your spouse share morning tasks so that you don't bear all the responsibility.

Take time for breakfast. To make things simpler, set the table the night before a good task for a younger child. Sit down for 15 minutes and eat a light, nutritious breakfast. If you can't take time to sit, grab a piece of fruit, cheese and crackers, an enriched bagel or muffin or a small filled sandwich.

Set your clock a little fast. It may be psychological, but having your clocks and watches set five to ten minutes ahead can keep you on schedule.

Reward yourself for getting to work on time. You'll be surprised how good you'll feel when you get to work on time and relaxed. Some rewards might include a leisurely bath, lunch with friends or a new book.

For more information on balancing work and family, or on time management, contact the Clark County office of the Cooperative Extension Service, 501 Clay Street in Arkadelphia, or call 246-2281.