I have found so many uses for Lists over the past few months that I wanted to share a little mini-series of articles about the many ways Lists can simplify, and maybe even save, a life. Each article will contain a background story about what inspired this list type, suggestions for use, selection criteria for contents, and suggested notes content.
Every parent will know this process - writing out the list of contacts for a babysitter, playdate parent, or sports coach. Doctor, dentists, mom’s work, dad’s work, grandparents or backup emergency contact… the list goes on and on. For ten or fifteen minutes you dig through your phone for each number and name, hoping you didn’t forget anyone important or write down a number wrong. This process is miserable and time-consuming.
Coordinating care for children is a communication-intensive task. A mother wears many hats - parent, event coordinator, taxi driver, record keeper and more. I am dependent on my support system of family, friends and care providers. It can be a lot. However, I make my life easier by managing and sharing my information with Lists.
As a co-parent, my ex-husband and I have a more amicable relationship because we never have any confusion or conflict over sharing the most updated and current information. Whenever my children have a playdate, I only have to send a single link to the other parent, and immediately they have all the information they could ever need. For babysitters, extracurriculars, sports teams, family members and playdates, I send my children out into the world with a shareable, updateable list of resources. This makes me a happier mother and a more prepared parent.
Now each of my children have their own cell phones and go to activities by themselves. This URL is also saved under their “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) contact in their phones. I’ve also added these URL’s to their school files, sports forms, and camp registrations.
I make these lists “Shared” not “Public” because they contain private information.
The following sample list contents have the map listing in BOLD, and the suggested notes information in italic.
- Schools (teachers, contact info and school schedule)
- Dentists (previous procedures, fears, sensitivities or concerns)
- Pediatrician (current medical conditions, preferred doctor, or notes on where to find the office in the building)
- Pharmacy (notes include details of their current prescriptions)
- Library (which programs are offered on which days)
- Friends’ homes (parents names and contact info)
- Family Member’s homes and workplaces (with contact info)
- Parks/recreation facilities (and the sports/activities we play at them on which day, at which field or facility)
Note: I have 2 lists - 1 with more personal information for close family, and 1 for more general use.
How could your family use lists? What other information would you add to your family list? I’d love to know!
To share such a list with other persons, expecially with regard to the kids is a brilliant idea!
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