The Power of Preparation167If there is no one available to “run defense” for you, keep
a mental list of activities your little one can do while you have
your morning time, such as eating breakfast, playing with
toys, or coloring.
We used to have a piece of paper with each kid’s wake- up
time next to a digital clock in their room. If the first number
on the paper and the first number on the clock didn’t match,
then it was time to try to sleep or read quietly. When the num-
bers matched, they could come out.
Some special clocks have lights that change from red (stay
in bed) to green (time to get up) for children old enough to
understand the concept but too young to read. Some of these
clocks also play music or a short story to keep children enter-
tained when it’s too early to get up.
Prep Your Tools
I’m a bit of a morning- spot supply addict. I love resources.
Here are some of my favorites:
- Bible
I use a New International Version Bible because I’ve
had it for years, and all the pen marks and highlights make
me happy. I’ve also started to use the English Standard
Version.
Whatever translation you use, I highly recommend keep-
ing a highlighter or pen handy. There really is something
special about a well- used Bible that inspires me to dig in. - Notebook
I’ve tried to use fancy notebooks, but for some reason,
the thought of messing them up with my not- so- pretty