Start Connected

Mornings are a time to reconnect with my kids.

Yes, mornings with kids can (and do) feel chaotic. Mornings are also a time to set the tone for the day.

Are we rushing and stressed or intentional and playful?

Intentional and Playful

These 10 ways to connect with your kids do not need extra time or added effort. Choose one or two that feel fun to you and try them out in your family’s morning rhythm!

1. Dance Wake-Up

Start the day with one song your kids love! Show off your moves and check out their moves while prepping breakfast.

2. Superhero Stretch

Sometimes, we have a kid who just can’t do anything in the morning.
It is all difficult.
You too?
Invite said child to start the day with a “superpower stretch” to warm up those powers and abilities! Arms out wide, legs strong, and a deep breath in to charge up those powers for the day!

3. Snuggle Minute

Kids prefer a calmer morning? Set a 1-minute timer for a “snuggle countdown” before getting ready for the day.

4. Animal Tooth Brushing

Transform tooth brushing into a game by naming an animal and brushing teeth like that animal. It is hilarious what kids will come up with and how they bring those ideas to life.

• Crocodile? Big open mouths!
• Sloth? Slow, intentional movements.

It is hilarious what kids will come up with and how they bring those ideas to life.

5. Silly Mirror Time

As kids brush teeth or you do their hair, make silly faces together in the mirror. You’re together in front of the mirror, anyway, why not turn it into a chance to play and connect?!

6. “What’s One Thing?” Question

At breakfast, everyone answers: “What’s one thing you’re excited about today?” and genuinely listens to each other’s responses.

7. Breakfast Cheers

You’re all sitting down for breakfast anyway, why not clink cups or toast together to a great day! It is a fun and silly little way to prepare for a good day together.

8. High-Five Challenges

My kids love a good obstacle course or physical challenge…if it is more for enjoyment than competition.
Enter the “high-five circuit”.
Before leaving the house, we must all high five in each location.

• High-five in the hallway
• High-five in the kitchen
• High-five in the mudroom.
• End with a “double high-five jump!” before heading out to the car.
  

9. Morning DJ

Create a playlist with a few of your family’s favorite tunes. Make the playlist the length of time your family typically uses to get ready and out the door.

In time, your kid may realize they are usually brushing teeth during their own favorite song.

A go-to playlist can be a fun way to keep track of time during the rhythm of the morning.

Need a playlist to get started?

Steal ours:

10. The Secret Note

Hide a tiny sticky note with a drawing or “I love you!” in their lunchbox. Even if it’s a quick scribble on a napkin, leave them a little note.

I used to think this had to wait until they could read, but even a simple doodle will do the trick.

The Real Move: You

These ideas aren’t about doing more. They’re about weaving connection into what’s already happening with playful intention.

Simple. Meaningful.

That’s what Tiny traditions is here to support.

Young children thrive on play and presence. Even a few moments of focused connection in the morning can transform their entire day (and your day)!

Try picking one or two of these bonus moves this week.

See how your child responds.

Let it be simple.

Let it be meaningful.