Being a working mom with two kids on different school schedules has its moments. On some days we have two kids in school, some days 1 in school and some days everyone is remote. While also working full time, we had to get creative with the tools we use to make it easier on mom! There are just so many schedules to keep track of all week long. We have been using our Google Home to help us make it through the day. How are we using it? In a few ways!
Timer
The timer function has been invaluable to help us during the day. My kids can set timers so they know when to hop back on their Teams calls. This is especially valuable when I am in a meeting so I don’t have to give them the ‘mom eye’ to send them back to virtual class. So helpful! I often hear the kids, “Google, set a timer for 10 minutes.” They are taking responsibility for their schedules during the day.
Music
I love streaming SPIRIT 105.3 so that I have uplifting music going on all day. I especially love the 12 minute dance break at noon to help get us all out of our computer chairs and moving around the house. All we have to say is “Google, play SPIRIT One Oh Five Three” and voila! Hope and encouragement all day long. It’s interesting how having this in the background changes how I feel throughout the day. I’m a much happier mom! You can stream SPIRIT 105.3 no matter where you live!
Questions
Is it me or is school harder than when we were kids? I don’t know, but thankfully Google has some answers. My kids love to have Google help them with their homework. I don’t mind either! Also, it can tell you jokes too. Might give the kids a laugh.
Alexa Homeschool Skills
I also just learned about these math skills, language arts skills, and movement skills that Alexa specifically has. The Simple Homeschooler has put them all together and they look super helpful, especially for homeschoolers. You can sign up for her free printable with all the skills.
For You
Not at all related to schooling, but related to surviving, we have our grocery shopping app hooked up to our Google Home so all we have to do is ask it to add something to the shopping list. This is so helpful because everyone in the family adds things when they run out and I have a complete list when it comes time to shop.
allmomdoes Podcast
If you are looking for some hope as you walk through your parenting journey, we have our podcast also available at your fingertips! Alexa, ask SPIRIT ONE OH FIVE THREE to play the allmomdoes Podcast. If you haven’t yet subscribed to the podcast, it’s a weekly podcast full of encouragement for your faith, your marriage, and your parenting! Subscribe today!
We have been utilizing our smart speaker so much more now that we are at home so often. What about you? Do you have a favorite way you are using Google or Alexa to stay organized?
