Let me tell you that being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job. Taking care of the home and raising a tiny human will have you buying a binder with plastic sleeves to print out home cleaning checklists and, or creating notion templates ( I have both) to stay on top of things.

I love my baby with all my heart, but some days are more overwhelming than others. I have noticed on those overwhelming days are never because of raising a child but because other adulting tasks need to be taken care of like laundry and cooking.

On top of that, I like to have everything in my home organized, but I haven't been able to recently. My toddler is seventeen months old, she's almost going to be two. So, that means she's already showing her personality and character. She's exploring everything on her own which I love and encourage.

However, it's not such a good feeling when it's late in the afternoon and nothing has been picked up, dirty dishes stacked up, and crumbs on the floor. I remind myself often that it's okay.

When I glance at the mess I breathe out the desperation to clean, letting go of the anger and anxiety building up. I soothe my frustration with a dance break with my toddler, a walk at the park, or a nap together.

But the mess and never-ending tasks are still there...mocking me!

Drives me crazy! lol

That's where I'm learning to draw the line and set a boundary with my parenting expectations and real life.

I would like to let my toddler draw and play all day long but there are other important skills she must learn as well like cleaning, picking after herself, and cooking.

So even though it may not seem as much fun to your toddler to do chores and errands with you, they will learn to accept it as their everyday life activities.

Including my toddler in my everyday chores and errands has made things better for me at home. Instead of waiting to have free time to clean, I show my daughter how she can help. The free time I reserve it for Me Time so I can relax in a bath, do skincare and have a fun drink.

That being said, here's an essential list for stay-at-home moms to help them stay motivated, entertain their toddlers, and care for their mental health.

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The Essential List You Need As A Stay At Home Mom With A Toddler.

Staying Motivated Essentials

1. Get up and get dressed

If it's too cold or doesn't feel right in the first 20 minutes then get back in your PJs. You can try again next time.

2. Have a simple morning routine

Wake up, brush your teeth, wash your face, and look outside the window for 5 minutes.

3. Music

I like to play music in the mornings to give me a boost of energy to start the day, and sing to my toddler. I play music when it's cleaning time and bath time.

4. Coffee

Of course! I'm sure most of you go to sleep thinking about tomorrow's morning first sip of coffee.

5. Planner

Getting out the colorful highlighters, gel pens, and stickers is the best way to stay organized. Knowing I get to add creative touches to my planner encourages me to reach for it often.

6. Home Decor

Now that I'm home all the time, I have started to add home decor that makes it feel cozy and more lived-in. When I look at my junk aka knick-knacks, it brings me joy!

Raising Children At Home Essentials

1. Kitchen Kids Step Stool

On those days when my husband is at work and I'm alone with my toddler I use this step stool often. It gives me free hands to cook and saves my back from carrying her. Also, gives little kids a better view of you washing dishes and peeling carrots.

2. Lightweight stroller

Spending time outdoors in the sun is my goal every day. We try to go on walks around the neighborhood or the park. This stroller works great because it's so simple and lightweight to take in and out of the car, as oppose to our heavy duty stroller.

3. Sunscreen

Since we try to catch the vitamins of the sunlight as often as possible, I make sure my toddler is always wearing sunscreen. This one has saved her from any sunburns.

4. Childproofing supplies

Some of our furniture pieces are not baby proof but we don't want to get rid of them so this works great. We tried others but the longer sides of these make them stick better to our glass TV mount.

5. Books

We try to limit screen time as much as possible, so books are always the best alternative. "Brown Brown Bear" is an equally fun and engaging books. This is my little one's favorite books. It has sliding windows to be interactive.

6. TV Shows and Movies

Since we do allow screen time, we try to stick to calmer, educating, or musical shows/ movies. Some of my toddler favorites are Little Einstein, Mrs. Rachel, Bluey, and Wall-E.

7. Baby gate

Once babies start walking it opens a new door of fears and worries. I like the color of this one and the peace it brings me.

8. Child-Friendly Tableware

I try not to own too much child tableware because it's more dishes to wash. Her main everyday plate has proved to be durable.

8. LifeVac Home Kit

Having this on hands brings me so much peace. I hope to never use to but I'm grateful to having it.

10. Kids Ball Pit

The ball pit is fun to play with and also you can use it for other activities. I like taking out the plastic balls and use the lightweight play pen for messy activities.

11. Several diaper changing stations

Having a diaper caddy downstairs and changing table changing stations made diaper changing so much easier. Especially, if you live in a two story home like us.

Mental Health Essentials

1. Take breaks

Don't forget to sit and do nothing from time to time. I enjoy lying on the ground. Once I have done so much my back hurts, I slow down, listen to my body, and lay on the floor (on my living room rug). It feels good and my kid thinks it's fun too.

2. Have a Hobby

Since laying in bed to rot, I mean rest doesn't have space in your agenda anymore, then you can seek that sensory input you crave on a hobby. Make it simple like plant collecting, miniature crocheting, or air clay creator. Remember to keep the focus on your hands and away from your thoughts.

Bonus

A Home tote bag

In my Home Tote Bag, I carry all essentials like my to-do list notebook, habit calendar, pens, markers, washi tape, iPad for content creating, AirPods, tissues, and snacks, When my toddler needs to take a nap (shes a contact sleeper) I pull this bag out and everything I need it there.

Conclusion

Being a mom that takes on many roles is tough, but it doesn't go unnoticed or unappreciated. YOU notice. You see the effort that it takes to raise and nurture a family. And if you don't, then take a second right now to hug yourself and give your shoulder a little kiss.

You are that mom. Sometimes it may not seem like enough, but it is because you are here trying to find ways to be a better-prepared mom.

I hope you found some great ideas!

20 Things You Need As A Stay At Home Mom With A Toddler.