It’s 10 p.m., and you’re packing lunches while reminding yourself to sign that field trip form (if only you could remember where you set it down). Oh, and that bag of old books waiting to be donated? Still there by the door. Being a parent is basically a never-ending reel of “don’t forgets” playing on repeat. Some days it feels manageable and other days, not so much.
And it’s not just you feeling the squeeze. According to Pew Research Center, a 2013 survey done by the Pew Research Center revealed that 56% of working moms and 50% of working dads struggle to maintain a balanced home life. It’s proof that managing a household is physically and mentally draining.
That’s where home management comes in. By building systems that fit your family’s unique rhythm, home management helps your household run smoothly and takes the mental load off your shoulders so you won’t be constantly asking yourself, “Did I remember everything?”
In this post, we’ll share smart, doable home management tips that help busy families feel more in control. From meal planning tips to organizational tactics, you’ll walk away with strategies to make your home run smoother so you can focus on what matters most: time together.
Ready to take something off your plate? Explore how Hello Nanny! can match you with the right childcare and household support. Connect with us today.
What Is Household Management?
For busy families—and default parents especially—household management goes far beyond chores. While getting the kids to school on time, keeping the fridge stocked, and making sure the house looks presentable is all in a hard day’s work for most parents, true household management is about creating systems that keep everything running smoothly, then putting those systems into practice day after day.
Household management systems address the planning, organizing, and overseeing all the moving parts that make family life work. That can include daily tasks like meal prep, laundry, and budgeting, but also bigger-picture responsibilities like coordinating schedules, managing household staff, and keeping up with home maintenance. When done well, effective household management lightens the load for parents and creates a more peaceful, well-ordered home environment for everyone.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Household Manager Jobs
What Goes Into Home Management
If you’re wondering how to manage a household efficiently, you’re not alone. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics cites that on average people spend a little over two hours on all household activities each day, which includes: food prep and cleanup, cleaning, laundry, lawn and garden care, and more. While we think this 2 hours per day may be conservative for some households, it’s undeniable that household tasks take up a large portion of our days. We’re not only devoting time to physically accomplish these tasks, but we’re also burdened by the mental load of planning, organizing, and keeping track of it all.
To fully grasp what goes into home management, we break it down into the below categories:
Childcare
From school drop-offs and extracurriculars to bedtime routines and playdates, childcare is often the most time-consuming and emotionally demanding part of home management. Coordinating schedules, supporting learning, and ensuring kids’ daily needs are met takes constant planning and flexibility—and a whole lot of mental bandwidth.
Meal planning and preparation
As much as some kids would happily dig into dino nuggets seven nights a week, most parents know meal planning and cooking takes way more thought (and effort). Between keeping the pantry stocked, prepping school lunches, and getting dinner on the table, it can feel like a full-time job. But, meal planning and prep goes a long way, which saves time, reduces stress, and helps families eat healthier while sticking to a budget.
Budgeting and financial management
Running a household means paying bills, tracking expenses, planning for future needs, and sometimes managing payroll for household staff. Strong financial systems ensure stability and reduce the stress that comes with unexpected costs.
Home organization and decluttering
While it’s only natural for toys and stuffies to be occasionally strewn about, a well-organized home reduces stress and makes day-to-day life smoother. This includes everything from managing closets and toys to setting up functional systems for paperwork, schedules, and household supplies. Decluttering regularly can also free up time and energy for the things that matter most
Together, these categories create the backbone of household management. Effective systems and support that streamline these three categories, will ensure your family and household stays organized, efficient, and less overwhelmed.
Related: The Default Parent Dilemma: Why Moms Carry the Maternal Mental Load (& How to Change It)
How to Manage a Household: Practical Strategies That Really Work
Successful home management relies on effective strategies to help your household run smoothly. But, what works for one family might not work for another. We’ve pulled together a list of tried-and-true recommendations from caretakers and real families. Remember that each family is different so not all of the below strategies may work (or even be necessary) for your family:
Organizational strategies
When you’re a parent, keeping everything (and everyone) organized can sometimes feel like herding cats. But don’t worry: you can turn chaos into harmony by adopting some clever strategies.
Simplify routines
For many families, the mornings and evenings can be the busiest and most challenging periods. Identify these times of days that can be challenging and tackle the issue head on. If your kids struggle in the morning getting out the door, perhaps, dressing them in their clothes (instead of jammies) the night prior could help. Or, say, making and heating up a bottle for your baby in the morning takes time—you can try setting pre-portioned formula out the night prior in a bottle to streamline making it the next day. Know that there are always ways to simplify your routines. Identify the times for your family that are the most challenging and then brainstorm creative solutions to make things work
Build a family schedule and share it widely
Use a shared digital calendar to track appointments, school events, and activities. Make sure every household stakeholder and caretaker (this can include nannies, family assistants, and/or grandparents) has access to the shared calendar. It may even be helpful to have a stand-up meeting every Sunday evening (or at a time that works best for your family) to review the upcoming week’s schedule.
Rely on technology for transparency and improved communication
We can’t stress this more: use technology to your advantage! Whether you’re relying on a shared google calendar, family organizer like Maple, ChatGPT to streamline meal prep and grocery lists, or even a product like a Roomba, there are countless ways you can leverage technology to your advantage.
Delegate tasks
Divide tasks between family members and outsource when it makes sense. Delegating tasks might be a good opportunity to teach age-appropriate responsibilities. For example, your kindergartner can be responsible for filling their water bottle every morning or getting their shoes ready by the door the night before. For older kiddos, delegating tasks like readying backpacks or chopping veggies can be very meaningful—for you and them.
Delegating tasks and giving age-appropriate responsibilities to your family members can empower them (and you!)
Time management techniques
Managing time effectively can transform overwhelming days into ones that are productive and rewarding. Below are some techniques that can help you master this superpower.
Prioritizing Daily Tasks
The golden rule of time management is to prioritize your tasks. Start your day by identifying the tasks that are crucial and need immediate attention, and distinguish them from those that can wait. This approach is supported by the Pareto Principle, or the 80/20 rule, which suggests that 80% of outcomes result from 20% of all efforts. By focusing on tasks that will have the most significant impact, you can ensure that your energy is spent on work that moves the needle.
Setting Realistic Goals and Deadlines
Setting goals is easy; the challenge lies in making them achievable. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and a sense of failure. A study by the University of Scranton suggests that only 40% to 44% of people who set New Year’s resolutions will be successful within six months, which often fail due to unrealistic expectations. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks with realistic deadlines. This approach not only makes your goals more attainable but also provides a clear roadmap to achieving them, step by step.
Time Blocking for Enhanced Productivity
Time blocking is a method where you divide your day into blocks of time, with each block dedicated to accomplishing a specific task or group of tasks. This technique helps in minimizing distractions and ensures focused work periods. According to Cal Newport, author of “Deep Work,” time blocking can significantly enhance productivity by fostering a focused work ethic. Assigning specific times for tasks can also help in balancing work and personal life, ensuring that you make time for the things that matter most.
Related: Why More Families Than Ever Are Turning to Family Assistants to Lighten the Load
Household management
Navigating the distribution of household responsibilities can often feel like solving a complex puzzle. But with a bit of strategy and cooperation, it transforms into an enriching exercise that strengthens family bonds. Here are the best home management tips to approach this challenge in a way that promotes fairness, efficiency, and satisfaction among all family members.
Identifying Core Responsibilities
It’s essential to lay out what is non-negotiable and has to be done. Core responsibilities typically include tasks like cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, and laundry. Start by making a comprehensive list of all the chores that are crucial to your home and family. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, sharing household chores ranks third in importance on a list of nine items associated with successful marriages. This underscores the significance of openly discussing and agreeing on who does what in the home.
Assigning Tasks According to Skills and Availability
Not all chores are created equal, and neither are the skills and schedules of each family member. Some may have a green thumb and excel in the garden, while others are culinary wizards. Take the time to match home management tasks with individual preferences and proficiencies, also considering each person’s timetable. By playing to each family member’s strengths and availability, not only is the workload more likely to be evenly distributed but tasks are also done more effectively and enjoyably.
Rotating Duties to Ensure Fairness
To keep things equitable and fresh, consider rotating chores. This approach ensures that no single person is permanently stuck with the less desirable tasks. A rotation system can also expose family members to a variety of chores, helping everyone develop a broad skill set. This method fosters a sense of fairness and shared responsibility, which is crucial for maintaining harmony. Plus, it’s an excellent way for children to learn about the best home management tips.
For families needing a bigger-picture household support, Hello Nanny! can help you find the right fit. Connect with our team today.
Meal Planning and Preparation
From planning, shopping, and cooking to cleaning up afterward, meal preparation is a time-consuming task that often falls on one person’s shoulders. But with the right approach and attitude, it can become more manageable and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Importance of Meal Planning for Busy Families
Meal planning is a critical strategy for families striving to balance nutritious meals with their hectic schedules. It’s about more than just saving time; it’s about ensuring that everyone has access to healthy and satisfying meals throughout the week. According to a study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, individuals who spend more time planning and preparing meals have healthier diets and are less likely to suffer from obesity. By dedicating time to plan meals, families can avoid the temptation of fast food, reduce food waste, and make grocery shopping more efficient and cost-effective.
Quick and Healthy Meal Ideas
For families on the go, mealtime needs to be both quick and healthy. The key is finding recipes that can be made in 30 minutes or less and that pack a nutritious punch. Think about incorporating whole grains, lean proteins, and a variety of fruits and vegetables into each meal. Examples include grilled chicken with quinoa and steamed vegetables, fish tacos with fresh salsa, or a hearty vegetable stir-fry with tofu or shrimp.
Batch Cooking and Freezing for Convenience
One of the best strategies for making meal preparation more manageable is batch cooking and freezing. This involves dedicating a few hours during the weekend to cook large quantities of meals, which can then be frozen and reheated throughout the week. This approach not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures that there’s always a home-cooked meal ready to go. Popular options for batch cooking include soups, stews, casseroles, and pasta sauces. This method of meal preparation is especially helpful for families, as it alleviates the stress of having to cook from scratch every day.
Budgeting and financial management
When you’re surviving day to day, it’s easy to let financial planning and budgeting slide (guilty!). But, the financial health of a family is crucial to its overall wellbeing. Proper budgeting and financial management can ensure that families have the resources they need to thrive and achieve their goals.
Creating a Family Budget
Creating a family budget is the first step toward financial clarity and control. Think of it as your financial roadmap; it helps you understand where your money is going, how much you can save and identifies areas where you might be overspending. Start by listing all sources of income and all expenses, including those pesky, often-forgotten annual subscriptions or memberships. The key here isn’t just to track but to plan future spending while allowing some wiggle room for unexpected expenses. It’s about balancing aspirations with reality.
Tracking Expenses Effectively
Next up, we have the critical task of tracking expenses. This is where many good intentions fall short. However, thanks to technology, numerous apps and tools can simplify this process. Regularly updating your expenses and comparing them with your budget can highlight discrepancies early on. This isn’t just about catching overspending; it’s about understanding spending patterns and adjusting habits accordingly. Remember, every penny saved is a penny that can contribute to your family’s financial goals.
Smart Saving and Investing Strategies
Now, for the exciting part: making your money work for you through smart saving and investing strategies. Start with establishing a solid emergency fund, ideally covering 3-6 months of living expenses. Once that’s in place, consider diversifying your investments to spread risk and maximize returns. This could include anything from stocks and bonds to retirement accounts like IRAs.
Home Organization and Decluttering
Stepping into an organized and clutter-free home after a busy day can be a true oasis of calm, don’t you think? It’s amazing how a well-ordered space can instantly lift your mood and reduce stress.
Decluttering Strategies for Busy Families
For many of us, the thought of decluttering brings up feelings of overwhelm, especially for families juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities. The key is to start small—focus on one area at a time, like a drawer or a shelf, and gradually work your way through the house. Setting a timer for just 15 minutes a day can make the task seem less daunting. Additionally, involve the whole family; make decluttering a team effort. Remember, decluttering isn’t a one-time activity but an ongoing process. Developing a daily cleaning routine, such as a quick evening tidying-up session, can help keep clutter at bay.
Maximizing Storage Space
Maximizing storage space is crucial for keeping your home organized, especially when space is at a premium. Think vertically—use shelves and high cabinets to take advantage of unused vertical space. Multi-functional furniture, like beds with drawers underneath or ottomans with storage, can also be game-changers. Another tip is to utilize back-of-the-door organizers in closets or pantries for an extra storage punch. By rethinking your space and getting creative with storage solutions, you’ll find that your home can accommodate much more than you think, without feeling crowded or cluttered.
Maintaining a Clutter-Free Environment
Maintaining a clutter-free environment is all about creating habits and routines that prevent clutter from piling up in the first place. One effective strategy is the “one in, one out” rule—when you bring a new item into your home, you remove an old one. This not only helps control the amount of stuff in your home but also encourages thoughtful consumption. Additionally, setting aside a few minutes each day for a “quick pick-up” can prevent small messes from becoming overwhelming. Interestingly, a study conducted by Princeton University found that physical clutter in your surroundings competes for your attention, resulting in decreased performance and increased stress. This highlights the importance of a clutter-free environment not just for the aesthetic of your home but for your mental well-being, too.
The Different Types of Home Management Support
Parents are superheroes, but even the most organized parent can’t do it all alone (nor should they even try). Once you embrace the value of support, the next step is figuring out which type of household management help fits your family best. Here are the three roles families find most impactful:
- Nanny: More than childcare, a nanny can help with light household tasks, routines, and keeping kids on track. Perfect for families whose main priority is hands-on childcare with some home support.
- Family Assistant: A flexible hybrid role that handles both childcare and daily household logistics. They can schedule appointments, run errands, support with childcare, and help manage household operations, freeing parents to focus on quality family time.
- Household Manager: Ideal for families looking for someone to oversee the entire household. From supervising staff to coordinating schedules, planning meals, and managing home maintenance, a household manager ensures the home runs like a well-oiled machine.
Each role can be tailored to your family’s rhythm and priorities, whether you need focused childcare, logistical support, or full-scale household oversight.
Get the home management support that makes the most sense for your family. We’ll help you navigate the hiring process with ease. Connect with our team today.
Home Management Matters: Creating a Plan That Works for Your Family
Life as a parent is busy and beautifully chaotic. And, guess what? That’s perfectly ok and to be expected. What is not ok is a stressed out parent who is not present for their children because they are so overwhelmed with the mental and physical load of running a home.
The good news is that with the right systems and support in place, busy parents (that’s you!) can reclaim time, reduce stress, and enjoy the things that truly matter: family meals, bedtime stories, and weekend adventures.
Home management isn’t about doing it all yourself perfectly. The goal of household management is to build a household that works for you and your family’s unique needs. The right support can turn “just keeping up” into truly thriving at home.
Home Management FAQs
What is home management?
Home management is all about creating systems and routines that keep your household running smoothly—from meal prep and laundry to scheduling, budgeting, and maintaining your home. Think of it as the behind-the-scenes magic that makes daily life feel a little less chaotic.
Why is home management important?
Effective home management helps streamline tasks and responsibilities like budgeting, childcare and home cleanliness. By creating home management strategies that work for your family, you’ll reduce stress, save time and give you back peace of mind.
How do I get started with home management?
Start small! Pick one area of your home that feels overwhelming and could use more structure like meal planning, laundry, or scheduling. Once you identify it, build a simple system around it to directly address pain points. Once that’s working, gradually expand to other areas. Little wins add up quickly!
What if my home management systems aren’t working?
Don’t stress! Systems need tweaks as your family grows and routines change. Take a step back, identify what’s not working, and adjust. Sometimes it’s about simplifying, delegating, or even asking for outside help. Successful home management requires flexibility and an open mind.
How can I get my family on board with home management?
Communication is key. Explain the “why” behind the system and make it a team effort. Assign age-appropriate tasks, celebrate wins, and keep it fun. When each family member has a role, they’re beholden to the family unit, which makes home management a shared responsibility instead of a solo job.
How do I hire someone to help me with home management?
Start by defining your household needs, whether that’s childcare, scheduling, meal prep, staff oversight, or all of the above. Once you identify the type of support you’d most benefit from, partnering with an agency like Hello Nanny! can make the search faster and stress-free, and ensure you’re matched with the right support to fit your needs.
Household management shouldn’t fall squarely on your shoulders. Discover how Hello Nanny! can help you lighten the load.
