Baseball games are hectic with no extra kids to cart around but when you have one playing, three sitting on the sideline, a husband coaching AND are being dugout mom… you HAVE to have a system that works. Sports day are chaotic with even the best intentions but I started using my wagon as my “headquarters” for game day essentials and it has helped me feel prepared but not overwhelmed and bogged down.
If you have never been to a baseball tournament or game you know that the parking situation is out of your control. After way too many trips back and forth, I feel like I finally figured out a system that works for me.
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The Right Wagon is a Game Changer for Sports Moms
Just having a wagon is not going to help you out, you have to have the right wagon. You don’t want one bigger than you need (the struggle putting that in and out constantly), it needs to sit the kids that need it, and while the wagons that haul just gear have their purpose, for something like this you need just a bit more. It has been a sanity saver during long days at the ball field.
My Wagon Setup for Kids Sports (Mom of 4)
My kids are currently 8, 7, 5 and 2. The two bigger kids do not need a wagon to sit in, seating is mostly for the 5 & 2 year old. So I only needed a wagon that sits 2 currently. I have had one in the the past for 4 and it was necessary for the time but I have stepped down to a smaller one.
A shade canopy is an essential. Pick a wagon that has the option for one so that during the hot days you can give them shade. If the wagon does not come with one, skip it.
My wagon of Choice: Omni Crew 3-in-1 Stroller Wagon. I can push it or I can pull it (necessary on the ball field) and it has storage plus a canopy.
Snacks: Unless you want to be spending a small fortune at the concession stand, plan ahead. I have a cute bag for snacks that is entirely unnecessary (unless you are a bit extra like me). I like this one because it does have two separate pockets. I use this one for packaged snacks like goldfish, crackers etc. These are my easy, safe go tos. I know the kids will be fine with eating something like this for a snack.
Fruit: If I have time I am going to pack a cooler with fruit and veggies in it. I would much rather the kids be choosing better snack choices and I know they are going to be begging for the candy and snowcones at the concession stand. If I have already cut up fruit ready to go, they are more willing to eat it. For this you need a cooler of some sort. I love the backpack versions.
Another option if you are not packing as heavy as these freezeable snack bags. They come in solid colors and designs. I love these for small things like yogurt etc.
Cooler Options: As mentioned above the packit snack bags or full sized lunch boxes are great. Smaller than a cooler but just as cold. Personally I use this cooler, the Igloo Tag Along Too. It isn’t too big or too heavy and carries just enough.
Drinks: Their school water bottles work JUST fine. As much as they would prefer we go all out with waterbottles and gatorade, it is not necessary. I fill the waterbottles to the brim with ice and then add the water.
Mom Essentials: What I bring for myself
Don’t forget yourself in all of this! Yes you are going to be running around after the younger kids, helping the team, potty breaks etc. but there are some things that you should bring to make your life easier.
Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Wipes, First Aid, Portable Fan, Phone Charger
Sibling Entertainment
It can be HARD to keep other kids entertained at sports games and we don’t use screens unless we are going on long road trips.
Magnatiles, monster trucks, coloring books.
How I Organize My Wagon (so it doesn’t become a mess)
This is what works for me and my family. It may not be exactly what you need but hopefully you can use some of this information for wagon organization ideas.
I like using bags attaced to the wagon. I find when I put too much inside they step on it or toss it around to get it out of their way and that completely defeats the purpose.
What I Don’t Bring Anymore
I’ll be honest, I am a much differet parent after the fourth child than I was after the first. I found so much of what you think you need (that weighs you down) is completely unneccessary. At the end of the day, you need enough things to make your time there comfortable but not too much to weight you down or make your life harder.
My Best Tips for Sports Moms with Multiple Kids
These are my beest busy mom life hacks for sports moms. Number 1 is KEEP IT SIMPLE. Pack the night before. Keep a ready to go bag.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Game Days Simple
Nothing is ever going to be perfect and something that worked one week may not work the next. You need to be flexible to go with the flow and use what works and ignore what doesn’t. You do not need perfection, just a system that makes your life easier.