As a mom of two little cowboys, I’ve had to learn the do’s and don’ts of ranch work with little kids. It’s not something you can be fully prepared for, so I hope these tips and tricks can help another ranch mom so you don’t have to learn the hard way!

The first tip is: when you anticipate something taking an hour, always plan for 3. Pack enough snacks for a whole afternoon, or pack an easy meal like sandwiches, cheese and crackers, and some fruit. I’ve learned the hard way that its ok for mom and dad to work all day and forget to eat, but toddlers need plenty of food (plus its a great distraction while we are working).

Not only do you always need extra food/drinks, always remember at least two backup outfits. Blowouts are bound to happen when you’re away from home, and accidents with the toddler can happen frequently. Make sure you have the proper spare clothing. You don’t want it to be 100 degrees out and your only extra clothes to be fleece sweatpants and sweatshirt.

In the summertime, always have the essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, hats, fun outdoor trucks and tractors to distract kids for hours, and lots of water. In the winter, you’ll need extra blankets, extra beanies and gloves, and extra toys for distracting kids in the pickup or tractor. In the spring and fall, the weather is undecided so you may have to pack both!

The second tip is all about baby/toddler gear: some is essential and some of it is a waste of money. Some essentials items would be a wagon or stroller, a playpen with a cover/umbrella, and a carrier. The wagon/stroller is super handy to have to keep your hands free and able to help. The stroller is most helpful when kiddos are younger, but the wagon is easier to transport and carries all essentials easily. The playpen is super helpful to keep kids out of the way, in the shade, and contained with snacks and toys. The carrier was always well used by me because when baby would be fussy or need a nap, he could be strapped in the carrier and instantly soothed. Plus, I could still be useful giving shots or pushing cattle up the chute. Also, don’t waste time or money buying and packing all the baby toys. Some of the best toys are empty water bottles, sorting sticks, tupperware containers with snacks, and unopened pop cans (or beer cans after a long days work- don’t judge).

Tip number three is to let your kiddos explore, learn, and be apart of what you’re doing on the ranch. As a parent, you always want your kids to be safe, but don’t stress yourself out so much worrying while doing ranch work that you can’t even focus on work or enjoy your time out of the house. I’ve recently heard audio on tik toks and reels that says “Don’t interfere when you see your kids doing dangerous things carefully.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s so important to let your kids learn how to be careful. Yes, there is always a time when you might need to step in and intervene, but let them explore, let them climb, let them discover things on their own and become independent!

Being a ranch mom is my favorite job. It’s the hardest job and most rewarding job. Sometimes when its hard and frustrating, remind yourself to enjoy this phase. Enjoy your kids being little and enjoy them discovering the things they love and discovering their love for the ranch. It’s only a phase and won’t last forever. Remember you’re not alone, and us ranch moms will always have each others back!