Our Top 4 Tips for Making Time for Yourself While Parenting
Ask any parent and they’ll tell you—caring for kiddos is one of the most rewarding experiences…but it can also be one of the most emotionally draining. Yet many parents struggle to make time for themselves while they are with their children.
But the truth is…it can be done.
That’s right—it is possible to carve out a little self-care time with the kiddos in tow. Here’s a list of our top 4 tips for doing just that.
Take Advantage of Naptime and Bedtime
Most parents are familiar with the blessed sense of freedom that comes when the kids are down for a nap or tucked in for the night. And it can be tempting to use that time to check off all the chores from your to-do list.
While there’s no harm in taking care of business during this downtime (especially if doing so is satisfying to you), naps and bedtime can also provide a perfect break for parents who need to refill their emotional cup. So, consider sitting down with a good book, getting out in your garden, or picking up that instrument that you love to play. Do whatever it is that brings you joy.
Schedule a Play Date with Other Parents and Their Children
Play dates are great for a variety of reasons. They give your child the opportunity to practice their socialization skills and enjoy a little play time with their peers. And they are an excellent way for frazzled parents to share their fears and frustrations while supporting one another.
Regularly scheduled playdates can be a lifesaver for both parents and children!
Do Things that Make You Feel Reinvigorated
In those moments when we have a little time to ourselves, it can be tempting to sit down with your phone or tablet in hand…or to turn on the television and pull up Netflix…and lose yourself for an hour to two in electronic delights.
As tempting as this may be, you likely walk away from such “breaks” feeling less than refreshed. Try using your time to do something that makes you happy. Maybe that’s baking. Or it could be enjoying an online yoga session. The idea is to “check-in” with your body by doing something you enjoy rather “checking out” through digital distraction.
(That being said, if bingeing a couple of episodes of Bridgerton is going to bring joy, do it. At the end of the day, this is about what makes you happy!)
Foster Independent Playtime
It’s easy to get into the habit of acting as a permanent playmate for your child, but helping children learn to play independently and enjoy their own company is a gift that will benefit him or her for a lifetime.
Keep a few activities on hand that your child can enjoy independently while you take care of business or take a little break—things like a new puzzle, a Lego set, or our very own Craftikit which is packed with twenty craft activities that will keep kids busy for hours.
Contrary to popular opinion, it is possible to make time for yourself while caring for young ones. Here’s to taking care of you so you can take good care of the littles in your life!
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