How to Keep Busy as a Stay at Home Mom (From A Mom of 3)
Best tips from a momma of 3 on how to keep busy as a stay at home mom!
Are you new to being a stay at home mom? Once upon a time this was me, and I did find it difficult to figure out what to do with my day.
I mean there is SO much to do on the to do list, but how do you know if you should be prioritizing time with the kid(s) or cleaning the house, or even just relaxing (we do need to relax too!).
My biggest problem with being a stay at home mom was knowing when to feed myself. It’s funny, I know. But I was figuring out healthy snacks for the kids all day long, and then when it came to myself I would just scarf down leftovers from the kids plates.
But now that I am 7 years into the stay at home mom game, I’ve got some great tips for other moms if they too are struggling to keep busy as a stay-at-home parent.
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Establish a Morning Routine
Starting your day with a structured morning routine can set the tone for a productive day. First things first, take a deep breath and plan out your daily schedule.
This could include a simple breakfast, getting dressed, and a little bit of quiet time to mentally prepare for the day ahead.
A consistent morning routine helps create a sense of structure, making it easier to manage the rest of the day.
Create a To-Do List
A to-do list is a huge help in staying organized and on top of things. It gives you a clear picture of what needs to be done and a sense of accomplishment as you check off each task.
Include daily routine tasks like a load of laundry, meal plan, and grocery store trips. Having a to-do list ensures you’re making the most of your time and not letting tasks pile up.
Embrace Nap Time and Quiet Time
Nap time and quiet time are golden opportunities for you to focus on self-care or get a few tasks done.
Use this time to practice self care activities like reading, enjoying a face mask, or simply taking a deep breath and relaxing.
This is also a great way to recharge and maintain your mental health.
Engage in Fun Activities with Young Children
Incorporating fun activities into your daily routine can make the long hours more enjoyable. Building blocks, playing a board game, or exploring new places like a local museum can be entertaining for both you and your kids.
These activities not only keep young kids engaged but also provide quality time together, fostering a happy mom and happy kids environment.
Take Advantage of Free Time
Whenever you find free time, use it wisely.
This could mean catching up on part-time work, pursuing a hobby like graphic design, or learning a foreign language.
Engaging in activities that interest you can be incredibly fulfilling and a good way to break the monotony. Remember, even a little bit of free time can make a big difference in maintaining your mental health.
Join a Facebook Group or Play Group
Connecting with other stay-at-home parents can provide much-needed adult conversation and support.
Joining a Facebook group or a local play group is a great way to meet mom friends, share experiences, and get new ideas for keeping your kids busy and entertained.
Implement Time Blocking
Time blocking is a practical way to manage your day. Divide your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks or activities.
For example, set aside time for independent play, meal prep, and phone calls. This method helps ensure that you’re making the most of your time and staying productive throughout the day.
this is my planner where I keep to do lists – it is it Erin Condren Life Planner and it my 7th year purchasing it. I’m pretty committed to this layout, it’s simply the best for me.
Plan for the Next Day
At the end of the day, take a few minutes to plan for the next day. Reflect on what worked well and what can be improved.
Adjust your daily schedule as needed to better meet your child’s needs and your own. This forward planning can reduce stress and make your days run more smoothly.
Prioritize Self Care
As a stay-at-home mom, it’s easy to put your needs last. However, self care is crucial for your mental health and overall well-being.
Simple steps like taking a walk for some fresh air, enjoying a date night, or trying out a new recipe can be invigorating. Remember, taking care of yourself helps you be a better mom.
Find New Things to Do
Exploring new places or trying new activities can keep life interesting. Whether it’s a new park, a different play group, or a fun craft project, introducing new experiences can be a great way to keep both you and your children engaged and happy.
Time Blocking
Time blocking has been a lifesaver. It means dedicating blocks of time to specific tasks or activities. For instance, set aside an hour in the morning for household chores, then a block for child-focused activities.
Remember, it’s not about filling every single time slot; it’s about creating a balance.
Bottom Line
Being a stay-at-home parent involves hard work and long hours, but with a well-structured daily routine, a focus on self-care, and the incorporation of fun and engaging activities, you can create a fulfilling and beautiful life for yourself and your family.
Take a deep breath, embrace each day with a positive mindset, and remember that every single time you invest in yourself and your children is building a happier and healthier home.
