Mastering the Art of Multitasking

Photo via The Hudson Family on Flickr

You did have a life before you were a mom, so you probably know quite a bit about multitasking. The one-handed approach allows you to do a whole slew of tasks, even with a babe in arms. The Rookie Mom’s Handbook by Heather Gibbs Flett and Whitney Moss has the tip:

Rookie Mom Tip #23: Master Some One-Handed Tasks

We’ve all heard that moms have eyes in the back of their heads and can juggle 17 tasks at once. One day you will drive a carpool while quizzing spelling words, applying lipstick, and planning someone’s birthday party in your head. But for now, let’s keep it simple.

What kinds of things can you do while one hand is occupied with baby care (e.g., shoving in a pacifier, nursing, soothing, bottle feeding)? Why, lots of things! Do some prep work before getting busy with your baby and you can:

1.     Eat a snack or mini meal. Have a cut or handheld food (sandwich, cold pizza) near your nursing station. Throw a dishtowel over the baby’s head. Nothing dangerous, please.

2.     Write thank-you notes. Have a stack of notes at the ready; write with your dominant hand, pacify with the weaker one.

3.     Type very slowly. A well-positioned laptop or keyboard goes a long way toward this endeavor.

4.     Drink a frosty beverage. Use a straw or a narrow-necked bottle.

5.     Read a book or magazine. If you can keep it open with one hand, you can read it.

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