Self-Care 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  

What makes you feel calm and fills you up in the best way? Self-care is going to look different for everyone. Here are some examples for you to try: 

• 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.  
• Plan out healthy, nutritious meals. 
• Try to fit in regular exercise every week – this can be stretching, a walk or jog, bike ride, dance party in your house!  
• 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 journal or write down 3 things you are thankful for every 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. Figure out what recharges your battery and make it a priority to do some things on a regular basis. This will not only benefit you but your whole family!