How Do I Have Time to Care for Myself And my Toddler?
How to practice self-care when you have little kids?
Life with littles seems all consuming. You gotta make sure they are fed, dressed, potty trained, buckled in, tucked in, sleeping well….the list goes on.
But what about yourself? Where is the time to brush your own hair much less your teeth? How can you build in things that are life-giving and self-caring for yourself in the midst of caring for another human.
You could make walking a daily routine. You could either use that time to have them walk with you and they will get tired before naptime! OR it’s also an opportunity to have some to have some “alone time” while they are awake but content in the stroller (eating a snack) while you are walking and doing something that helps your overall health. It’s a very loving thing to do as a mother, to do things that give you life, help your mental and emotional health. The stroller really can become your bestie during this season… You will be de-stressing by the mere act of walking and soaking up the beauty of the outside. This is a great post about the benefits of walking.
Why do I struggle to take care of myself?
Everyone knows the airplane mask plan…make sure you secure your own oxygen mask before you reach to help others. The same is true for us as mothers. We won’t be able to take good care of our kiddos if we haven’t met our necessary needs first.
Sometimes, calling a friend during the day or having a play date with someone can be very refreshing. To be seen by an adult, rather than making sure you are seeing your kiddos and taking care of their needs can give you back the pep in your step.
Walking with a friend is also a fabulous way to have accountablity to get your movement on AND you can talk to someone…whether that be in person on a scheduled call while yall walk and talk.
Jesus walked and talked so much with his disciples, the people closest to him. They shared everything (often while walking I bet…they covered miles with all the traveling to different towns!). But they together asked and answered questions, shared encouragement, struggles and did life together.
Having quality friends is a lifeline. Finding a local church is a wonderful place to start finding and making quality friends. Here is a great blog post on the gospel coalition of why mom’s need the church. Here is a great site to find a biblically sound church in your area. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/churches/
Rest time and nap time can be a huge reprieve during the day, whether you use that time to prep dinner, read your bible, take a much needed nap, read a book that’s enjoyable or just chilling out for a few minutes.
Note to my readers: this was a requested blog post from someone who has a young toddler at home and another little one on the way. And I would love to write blogs that would be helpful for you too! Shoot me an email on the contact me page with a topic request or question and I will reply to you. And then look for the blog post about your desired topic :)
Ps. And if this doesn’t apply directly to you I’d LOVE if you share it to a Mama you know who would need this encouragement!
—Chels
