Everybody loves a shortcut. Here are a few to make your life easier:

Prep your food. Some parents swear by preparing servings of formula, baby food, snacks, and a set number of family meals ahead of time and then drawing from the supply (and replenishing it) as needed. Whenever possible, put together meals (yours and your baby's) in advance.

Organize supplies. Keep things you use regularly in fixed locations so they're there when you need them. Establishing a diaper-changing station on each floor of your home is one great trick. (You can use an ottoman in the living room, for example.) Have a diaper bag stocked at all times so you can just grab it and go – or keep a backup in your car. Store all your baby's bathing and feeding supplies in baskets or containers that you put in the same place every time, so you don't have to go hunting for what you want.

Involve your baby. Taking a bath with your baby saves time and can be fun. Making a game of some household chores – such as folding laundry (babies love to crawl in the pile) or tidying up your baby's room – allows you to take care of your little one, have fun, and get work done at the same time.

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