The Overwhelmed Baseball Mom’s Guide to Surviving the Season (and Staying Organized!)
Let’s be honest here, people: juggling kids’ sports activities during the school year is no joke. I’ve been through so many different sports and seasons as my boys tried on various activities, I’ve lost track! Between practices, games, last-minute snack duties, and trying to squeeze in dinner that doesn’t come from a drive-thru window, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly one step away from a scheduling meltdown. Trust me, I’ve been there more times than I care to admit!
But here’s the thing—I’ve found a way to bring a little order to the chaos. Spoiler alert: it involves some DIY creativity and a whole lot of planner stickers! Yes, you heard that right—baseball planner stickers. Did you see my post on making your own planner stickers???
But the best part? I’ve got a free download for you because I’m all about making life a little easier for my fellow “baseball moms.” The sticker set above I created for myself, but the cuts still aren’t right – so I created brand new ones for YOU!
But first, let’s talk about managing this whirlwind schedule and some fun ways to keep your kids practicing without adding more stress to your plate.
Getting Ahead of the Game with DIY Baseball Planner Stickers
I first started making planner stickers around my kids’ activities a few years ago. It took me a LONG time, because I fail to keep anything simple! I started cranking out stickers for baseball, karate, horseback riding lessons, and eventually hockey!
I told you, Mom-of-all-sports. Here is my first go around with stickers, for baseball and my own true crime addiction!
Let me tell you, when the baseball season hits, my planner starts to look like a Jackson Pollock painting—color-coded chaos with a side of crumpled Post-it notes. But since embracing the magic of DIY baseball planner stickers, I’ve turned that chaos into . . . well, a more organized kind of chaos (hey, I’m a realist). These stickers are perfect for marking practices, games, snack duties, and all those other “surprises” that tend to pop up. And since they’re designed with all you crafty folks in mind, they’re not just functional—they’re also a little fun!
Feel free to download the free printable planner stickers at the end of the post and start organizing your schedule like a pro. Trust me, your sanity will thank you.
Affordable DIY Practice Ideas for Your Little Slugger
Alright, so let’s say you’ve got the schedule under control (as much as anyone can, anyway). Now comes the other part: making sure your kid actually practices baseball without breaking the bank. I mean, who has the budget for all that fancy equipment? Not me! Here are some DIY ideas to keep your little slugger practicing without emptying your wallet.
1. Create an Affordable Batting Tee
Forget the pricey batting tees at the sports store. We’re going DIY with this one! Grab a sturdy PVC pipe, a rubber tee topper, and an old car tire. With a little bit of elbow grease (and maybe a YouTube tutorial or two), you can build a batting tee that’s perfect for your child—and adjustable as they grow. Plus, it doubles as a “don’t mess with me” statement piece for your garage. Bonus!
2. Build Your Own Pitching Target
No need for a partner when you’ve got a pitching target in the backyard. All you need is a large piece of plywood, some paint, and a net to catch those wild pitches. Paint a strike zone on the plywood, attach the net behind it, and voilà—instant pitching practice! This one’s great for those days when you just can’t play catch for the hundredth time (or maybe that’s just me).
3. DIY Backyard Obstacle Course
Transform your backyard into a mini training ground with a homemade obstacle course. Set up cones, tires, and ropes to create a fun path for your child to run, jump, and weave through. This setup not only improves agility and coordination but also doubles as a secret weapon to tire them out before bedtime. You’re welcome!
Psst – you can also do this sort of thing inside in inclement weather, using painters tape and maybe some balloons! Check out my indoor obstacle course post here!
4. Use Shadows for Better Batting Form
This might be my favorite because it’s so simple—no fancy gadgets needed! Get your child to practice their swing using their shadow as a guide. It’s a fun and visual way to help them perfect their batting form. Plus, it’s one less thing to buy, and I’m all about saving a buck.
5. Fun Throwing Games
Kids love games, and this one’s a hit (pun intended). Set up targets at various distances—think buckets, hula hoops, or chalk circles on a wall—and challenge your child to hit them with a baseball. It’s a great way to improve throwing accuracy and keep them engaged. And hey, if they miss, it’s a good reminder to have them help clean up afterward (teach them young, right?).
The Final Stretch: Keeping It All Together
Practicing baseball at home doesn’t have to break the bank. With these DIY ideas, you can create a fun and effective training environment for your child. Keep the sessions enjoyable and varied, incorporating activities like games to get your kids outdoors. Make sure you’ve chosen the right baseball bat for your child’s age and skill level to ensure they get the most out of their practice. Start implementing these tips today and watch your child’s baseball skills soar.
But the real MVP here is staying organized. Make sure to grab those free DIY baseball planner stickers here, and while you’re at it, poke around the blog! You’ll find plenty more DIY tips, tutorials, and crafting inspo to keep your home running smoothly (or at least pretending to).
Hang in there, fellow sports parents—you’ve got this. And if all else fails, there’s always coffee. Or wine. Or both.
Happy crafting and good luck on the field!