Adults have needs just as children do. Adults need close relationships with other adults; we need to feel seen and understood; we need to have time with our friends, as well as alone time for ourselves; and we need time for the things we enjoy doing most.

This may seem unrealistic when raising young children, but it’s important to remember that being a good parent does not mean sacrificing your own needs to meet your children’s needs every second of every day. The key is finding the right balance for your family where you can take breaks to help recharge your own batteries.

There are many benefits to prioritizing self-care; parents whose own needs are being met find it easier to:

• Manage challenging behaviors
• Stay calm in stressful moments
• Be present with their children
• Have more patience

The love we have for our children is endless, however the demands of parenting can be stressful. Sometimes stress and feeling overwhelmed are signs that you are trying to do too much. You might find that you are inconsistent in how you parent or that you get angry over the little things that would normally not affect you. Our emotions and behavior have a big effect on our children and how they behave, which is why it’s so important that you look after yourself and your own needs.

Self-care is going to look different for everyone. For a parent, it might include healthy ways to relax, have fun, exercise, or socialize.

• Connect with other parents through parenting groups like Forty Carrots Partners In Play® and Welcome to Our World®.
• Take a relaxing bath while a trusted caregiver takes the kids on a walk or to the park.
• Practice daily yoga or meditation.
• Write in a journal.
• Try to fit in regular exercise every week – this can be a walk or jog, bike ride, dance party in your house! Put the baby in the stroller, or jog beside your child while they ride their bike.
• Be intentional and take some slow, deep belly breaths. When you have taken a full breath, pause for a moment and then breathe out slowly through your nose or mouth.
• Spend time in nature. Research shows that being in nature can help reduce anxiety and stress.
• Practice daily gratitude and write down 3 things you are thankful for every day.
• Call a friend and talk, laugh, or just process your day.
• Spend quality one on one time with your significant other or a close friend.

Most parents will tell you that parenting never gets easier – it just changes. While you may have swapped toddler tantrums for the emotional roller coaster of the teenage years, you’ll find that it does become a little easier to focus on self-care. Being aware and mindful of your emotions and tending to your needs when you notice your reserves are running low will not only benefit you, but your whole family.