Alright, so first thing’s first – there’s no such thing as being a perfect parent. Let’s just get that out of the way now before we move on to the important bits.
On social media, we are constantly bombarded with the highlights of other people’s lives, including picture-perfect houses, holidays, and activities, which create an unhealthy precedent that parents feel the need to conform to. You may even find yourself scrolling through endless articles on what celebrities are doing that appear to make them “perfect” role models for their kids! The truth is, your children crave your affection and attention the most – and if you’re giving them that regularly, you’re as close to perfect parenting as possible. No celebrities, unrealistic mummy bloggers, or social media influencers needed!
But what if you feel like you can’t give them attention because of your exhausting 9-5 workload? Or because of how tired you are from organising a work presentation alongside cooking dinner? Or because you’re trying to balance keeping the house tidy, ensuring your bills are paid on time, and helping with homework. Well, you’re not alone! Wondering how you can successfully do it all is a common concern for parents, given the growing rate of both parents working 9-5 jobs, but having a healthy work-life balance is something we can all achieve.
With a bit of time and effort, making time for your children can go from being a stressful task to a perfectly achievable parenting win! By implementing the 10 top tips outlined for you below, you will not only strengthen the relationship with your children but also foster a happy and healthy environment in which your children feel more heard and valued.
1. Quality Time
Make quality time for your children out of typically mundane tasks. Bath-time and dinner-time can be fun opportunities to transform the everyday into something exciting so try to enjoy them! Make up fun games to play in the bath, let your kids have a go at making dessert, or invent an activity at the dinner table. Children don’t need a set agenda of activities laid out for them to have fun.
2. Leave Work at Work
If possible, don’t bring your work home. This is much easier said than done, particularly with many of us now working from home. However, it’s important that outside working hours to close your laptop. It’s impossible to work 24/7, our minds need time to switch off, and we’ll be much more productive the next day with a well-earned rest in the evening. Try to set aside your “office” mindset and focus on your family, whether it’s watching a movie all together, playing a game, or just sitting for a chat.
3. Details Matter
We’ve got a million and one things to do as parents, but where we can we should all try to remember small details in our child’s life. If your child has been making friends at school, or if there’s an upcoming test they’ve been talking about, chat about it with them at breakfast or ask about it in the car. It will make them feel heard and noticed, even if you’ve been working a lot lately. This tip is especially important if you have more than one child, as each one will feel remembered and important to you.
4. Eat Together
Eat meals with your children, when you can. There’s a psychological connection to the act of sitting down and eating with your family that creates a strong family bond. During this time, you can take turns asking each other about their day. If something interesting happened, follow up with more questions, for example: “Is there a school event coming up for that?” or “Did you enjoy playtime today?” Showing an active interest in your children’s lives will reinforce that you care for their personal lives.
5. Plan Activities
Do an activity that is something only the family does together. If you have a dog, be sure to walk it together as a family. Use this time to enjoy outside activities with your children. Bring chalk to draw along the pavement to engage your child’s creativity or a football to kick around in the park. Make “walking the dog” a family event that your children look forward to, without stressing about housework, homework, or school. Choosing to make a family-only activity lets your children see how important it is to make time separate from their responsibilities for each other, creating a healthy home. If you’re looking for some weekend inspiration, have a look at some of our top toddler-friendly days out here.
6. Try to keep a peaceful mindset
Make sure you come home from work in a calm state of mind. The last thing you want to do is take your stress and anxiety out on your family when you’re trying to spend more time with them. On the way home from work, listen to something calming. Or, if you are working from home, give yourself 15 minutes to chill before focusing on your family. This could be your favourite podcast, a great playlist even a meditation guide.
7. Take time for yourself
We understand that it is impossible to give your undivided attention to your children 24/7. Every parent needs a break and it’s important to make time for yourself, or for you and your partner, so make sure to schedule in some time away from the children every now and then! On Yoopies we have hundreds of local babysitters available in your local area to help you master your work-life balance!
8. Make lists
Often as parents, we feel overwhelmed at the number of things we need to do. Organising your time and tasks will help you feel more in control. Break down the tasks you need to complete into small achievable tasks, with the most important featuring at the top of your list. Each time you complete something tick it off, helping you feel a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
9. Avoid too much screen time
If you are always on your phone around your children, they too will pick up a similar habit. Equally, being on your phone or laptop late at night will prevent you from getting the best night’s sleep. Studies show that doing something away from a screen before bed is much better for your mental health. Try reading, talking with your partner, or listening to some calm music.
10. Plan your morning the night before
Planning your morning before going to sleep will help you feel productive when waking up. You are far likely to feel less stressed if uniforms and packed lunches are prepared the night before. Whilst we can’t always prepare in advance, trying to get as much sorted before bedtime will help the morning with your family be much less stressed and rushed.
We at Yoopies understand that parenting is filled with ups and downs. Finding homecare help may help relieve some of the extra stress off your shoulders. With Yoopies you can find help with childcare, tutoring, housekeeping, elderly care, and pet care to help you keep your work-life balance in check.