Motherhood Essentials

As a seasoned mom of babies to teens, I thought it was time to put together a little Motherhood Essentials cheat sheet. This will be a great reference for anyone seeking a little leg up in motherhood, no matter the season you are currently traversing. Theses essentials are all tried and true options that I can personally attest to and recommend based on actual experience!

All-Seasons Must-Haves for Moms:

• A realistic planner or digital calendar. I’ve used and loved this simplified planner for a while now!
• As much time outside daily as possible!
• A solid list of books to read or listen to.
• Daily alone time (even 10 minutes counts!)
• A rotating self-care list (Have you heard of a Dopamine Menu? I have a blog post all about how to create your own! Check it out here.)
• Trusted mom friends or community
• A flexible mindset and sense of humor
• Quiet devotional, journal, or reflection time
• A good multivitamin such as this one here with natural, nutrient rich, pure ingredients. No lab made vitamins here.
• A cozy robe or lounge set for early mornings and late nights
• A tidy catch-all bin for each kid’s stuff
• Simple systems and routines to reduce decision fatigue
• A reminder that you’re doing better than you think!

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The Baby Years (0–2 years)

Must-Haves for Mom:

• Comfortable baby carrier (I have both the Solly Wrap and Tula structured carrier in photo)
• High-quality diaper bag with lots of compartments
• Postpartum recovery kit (nursing pads, sitz bath, peri bottle, etc.)
• Hands-free breast pump. I had the Medela Freestyle and used it often!
• Nursing-friendly clothing – maxi dresses and tank tops (add a cardigan or loose sweater in winter) were my go to’s for this season of life.
• Rocker or glider chair for soothing/nursing. I’ve used this Delta chair for 4+ years with my last two babies and it’s held up great! Very comfortable and I would buy it again!
• White noise machine for better sleep. Again, I’ve used this one for both of my youngest kids. I have two full sized ones and the companion travel option – all of them have been used for my girls with no issues!
• Pretty water bottle (hydration is key for nursing and energy – might as well look nice)
• High quality pre-natal vitamin. Yes, you definitely still need this postpartum!
• Freezer meals to lighten the load – might I suggest asking for these as baby shower gifts! A little unorthodox perhaps but I found these freezer meals to be worth their weight in gold during those first few weeks of survival mode.

The Toddler Stage (2–4 years)

Must-Haves for Mom:

• Sturdy stroller or wagon (love that this one has so many options and a mosquito net!)
• Toddler-proofing gear (baby gates, cabinet locks)
• Easy-access backpack or large purse to store change of clothes and other essentials
• A step stool for the kitchen
• On-the-go snacks and spill-proof cups
• Booster seat for on the go
• A big tote bag for outings (I typically just use the large TJ Maxx or Homegoods reusable bags they have in the checkout line for $1)
• Simple arts and crafts supplies (sidewalk chalk, play doh, etc)
• Simple routine board and beginner responsibilities (feed pets, help put away laundry)
• Comfortable shoes for chasing little legs! I love my slip on Birkenstocks to get out the door quickly!
• A flexible but consistent daily routine
• A supportive online or local mom group

Early Childhood (5–8 years)

Must-Haves for Mom:

• Craft or Homeschool station supplies (bins, pencils, scissors, crayons, construction paper, etc.)
• Family calendar or whiteboard for tracking school and activities
• Healthy snack bins that are kid-accessible
• Reusable lunch gear (bento boxes, water bottles)
• Quiet time activities (books, puzzles, drawing kits)
• Parenting books focused on child development & discipline
• Car organizer for after-school chaos
• Memory-keeping system (like a school year file box)
• Pre-packed park/playdate bag (to be kept by the door or in the car at all times!)
• Quality time idea list (games, baking, crafts)

The Tween Years (9–12 years)

Must-Haves for Mom:

• Open communication tools (parent-child journals, conversation cards)
• Shared digital calendar for school, sports, and family plans
• A designated family command center
• No smart phones
• After-school snack & homework routine
• Organized family charging station – drop all electronic devices here when you get home
• Books on emotional intelligence and changing bodies
• Simple wardrobe system for growing independence
• Scheduled one-on-one time (once a week outing or movie night, etc)
• Evening wind-down routine for better sleep and connection

The Teen Years (13–18 years)

Must-Haves for Mom:

• Open-door policy & safe conversation space
• Tech boundaries and accountability tools
• Driver’s education prep resources
• Flexible yet firm family expectations
• Family time to stay in touch with one another
• Meal planning system that includes teen favorites – have teen cook one night a week!
• Portable chargers & car essentials for your new driver
• Clear chore expectations & money management tools
• Books or podcasts for parenting teens
• Support system for YOU — a friend, mentor, or counselor

No matter what age your kids are, just remember that this time is fleeting! And exhausting, and sometimes completely overwhelming. But, you can do this! You are those kids’ whole world. With some solid systems in place and good resources to help you be the best mom you can be, this motherhood thing is not only doable, but you can and will excel at it. If I’ve missed any crucial essentials on this list, please let me know!!

Until next time friend,

Olivia

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