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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Morning Routine
First things first, having a structured morning routine is a game changer.
It sets the tone for the rest of the day. Whether it’s a quick face mask while the coffee brews, or sorting a load of laundry, little steps in the morning can make a huge difference.
If you’re a new mom, getting into a routine might take some time, but trust me, it’s worth the effort.
Here is my four step morning routine if you need inspiration.
To-Do List
I swear by my to-do list. It might seem like a small step, but jotting down tasks can provide a sense of structure to what can often feel like long hours of endless tasks.
Include everything from ‘grocery store run’ to ’15 minutes of self care’. And yes, crossing off ‘load of laundry’ does provide a sense of accomplishment!
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.
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.
Quiet Time
Quiet time is essential, both for you and the kids.
Encourage independent play, which is beneficial for their development, and gives you a moment to catch a deep breath. This could be the best time to make those phone calls or dive into a book for a bit.
Self Care
Self care is not selfish; it’s necessary. It can be as simple as enjoying a cup of tea in silence or joining a Facebook group for support and laughter.
Remember, a happy mom makes for happy kids.
Meal Planning
Meal planning can be a lot of work but it’s a huge help in the long run.
Plan your meals for the week, and you’ll save time and stress. Plus, it’s a good way to ensure you’re feeding the family (and yourself!) healthy meals.
My planner actually has a wipe clean meal planning insert so I use that weekly, and it helps reduce the stress of dinner in a way I never thought it could.
Finding Joy in the Small Things
Sometimes, it’s the little things that can be the most rewarding. Playing a board game with the kids, a quick trip to the local museum, a simple trip to the library, or even a simple date night can make a big difference in breaking the monotony of the day.
Part-Time Work or Hobbies
If you’re feeling the itch to do more, consider part-time work or a hobby (I have one – I picked up a few hours in a baby department of a toy store). It’s a great way to engage in something you love while also contributing to the household.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with adults and have conversations that don’t revolve around cartoons!
Evening Routine
Just like your morning routine, an evening routine can help wind down the day. Once the kids are in bed, take some time for yourself. Whether it’s catching up on your favorite show or indulging in a skincare routine, it’s important to end your day on a positive note.
50 Ways To Keep Busy As A Stay At Home Mom
1. Crafting Time
Embrace your creative side during nap time or quiet moments. Crafting can be a therapeutic way to engage in something enjoyable, enhancing your mental health.
2. Reading Books
Delve into a good book whenever you get a chance. This can be a wonderful escape and a great way to enjoy some alone time.
3. Gardening
Spend time in your garden. It’s not only a productive activity but also provides fresh air and a deep sense of accomplishment.
4. Yoga or Meditation
Prioritize your mental health with yoga or meditation. This can be fitted into your daily routine, even with young children around.
5. Cook a New Recipe
Experimenting with new recipes can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your free time, and it’s great for family meal plans too.
6. Start a Blog
Share your experiences as a working mom or about your daily life. It’s a great way to connect with others and indulge in some adult conversation. You can also make a little money doing this too!
7. Join a Local Playgroup
Joining a playgroup is not just great for your little ones but also for meeting mom friends and enjoying some social interaction.
8. Online Courses or Webinars
Use your free time for personal development by enrolling in online courses, perhaps in topics like graphic design or a foreign language.
9. DIY Home Projects
Tackle small home improvement projects. It’s a productive way to spend time and gives a fresh look to your living space.
10. Exercise Routine
Incorporate an exercise routine into your daily schedule. This is essential for your physical and mental well-being.
11. Photography
Take up photography. Documenting the growth of your children or capturing the beauty of everyday life can be very fulfilling.
12. Scrapbooking
Start a scrapbook. This is a great way to preserve memories and spend some quality time being creative.
13. Volunteer Work
Engage in volunteer work during free time. It’s a rewarding way to give back to the community and feel connected.
14. Plan Date Nights
Plan regular date nights with your partner. It’s important to nurture your relationship and have some adult-only time.
15. Organize and Declutter
Organize and declutter your home. This can be a therapeutic activity and helps in maintaining a clean and peaceful environment.
16. Baking
Bake something new. It’s a delicious way to pass the time and a great activity to involve your kids in.
17. Knitting or Sewing
Take up knitting or sewing. These activities can be very relaxing and you’ll have something beautiful or useful at the end.
18. Puzzle Solving
Work on puzzles. This is a great brain exercise and can be a fun activity for the whole family.
19. Explore Local Museums
Visit local museums or art galleries. This can be both educational and a nice change of scenery.
20. Hiking or Nature Walks
Go for hikes or nature walks. It’s good exercise, great for mental health, and an opportunity to teach your children about nature.
21. Join a Fitness Class
Join a fitness class, either online or in person. It’s a great way to stay fit and meet new people. My fitness class is choice is Yoga and I was lucky enough that it is led by a friend of mine so it was a comfortable way for me to get into the fitness game. The health benefits of having a hobby like this is great. My classes are in the evenings so I do not have to worry about care for the kids.
22. Family Game Night
Organize a family game night. It’s a fun way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. We do one every sunday after dinner!
23. Learn a Musical Instrument
Learn to play a musical instrument. It’s a challenging and rewarding way to spend your time. I accidentally learned how to play the drums because I needed to teach my kiddo how to use his drum set. It was actually so fun.
24. Movie Nights
Host movie nights at home. It’s a relaxing way to end the day and a fun activity for the whole family.
25. Painting or Drawing
Paint and draw with your kids. It’s a great way to pass time, and it’s relaxing too. The clean up isn’t as relaxing, but you don’t have to clean up immediately.
26. Write a Journal
Keep a journal. Writing about your experiences and feelings can be a great outlet and a way to preserve memories.
27. Social Media Breaks
Take regular breaks from social media. This can help in reducing stress and improving your overall well-being.
28. Plan a Family Trip
Plan a family trip or outing. It gives you something exciting to look forward to and a break from the daily routine.
29. Start a Small Business
Consider starting a small, part-time business. It could be something as simple as a home bakery or a craft store online.
30. Attend Workshops
Attend workshops or seminars that interest you. This can be a great way to learn new things and meet like-minded individuals.
31. Create a Family Album
Work on creating a family photo album. It’s a beautiful way to document your family’s journey and share memories.
32. Join a Book Club
Join a local or online book club. It’s a great way to ensure you keep reading and to have interesting discussions.
33. Host Play Dates
Host play dates for your children and their friends. It’s a fun way for them to socialize and for you to interact with other parents.
34. Practice Mindfulness
Practice mindfulness exercises. This can help in reducing stress and improving your focus and mental clarity.
35. Start a Garden Project
Begin a garden project. Whether it’s vegetable gardening or flower planting, it’s a rewarding and peaceful activity.
36. Home Spa Day
Treat yourself to a home spa day. A long bath, face masks, and relaxation can do wonders for your mood and self-care.
37. Family Cooking Day
Have a family cooking day where everyone gets involved in making a meal. It’s a great bonding experience.
38. Memory Games
Play memory games with your kids. These are fun and educational for young children.
39. Explore New Places Locally
Explore new places in your local area. It’s a great way to discover new things and break the monotony.
40. Attend Parenting Classes
Attend parenting classes or groups. These can offer support and useful tips for dealing with the challenges of parenting.
41. Board Games
Play board games during family time. They are great for bonding and can be educational for young kids.
42. Start a Collection
Start a collection, like stamps, coins, or anything that interests you. It can be a very satisfying hobby.
43. Dance Classes
Enroll in dance classes. It’s a fun way to exercise and learn a new skill.
44. Mentorship or Coaching
Consider mentoring or coaching in your area of expertise. It’s a great way to give back and stay connected with your professional side.
45. Plan Your Next Day
Spend some time each evening planning for the next day. This can help in staying on top of things and managing your time effectively.
46. Bird Watching
Try bird watching in your backyard or a nearby park. It’s a peaceful and educational activity that can be quite fascinating.
47. Learn Calligraphy
Learn calligraphy or brush lettering. It’s a beautiful art form that can be very therapeutic and a great way to create personalized gifts or decor.
48. Start a Podcast
Consider starting a podcast about your experiences as a stay-at-home mom or any other topic you’re passionate about. It’s a great way to connect with others and share ideas.
49. Astronomy
Take up astronomy. Stargazing can be a magical experience, and learning about constellations can be very educational for you and your children.
50. Pilates or Barre Workouts
Try Pilates or barre workouts at home. These are excellent for building strength and flexibility and can be easily done in a small space.
51. Join a Community Choir
If you enjoy singing, consider joining a local community choir. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people and enjoy some music therapy.
52. Herb Gardening
Start an herb garden in your kitchen or on your balcony. It’s not only practical for cooking but also a lovely way to add some greenery to your home.
53. Art Journaling
Dive into art journaling. This combines creative expression with journaling and can be a fantastic outlet for your thoughts and emotions.
54. Indoor Rock Climbing
Try indoor rock climbing, if you have a facility nearby. It’s a fun, challenging workout and a unique way to spend your free time.
55. Chess or Strategy Games
Learn to play chess or other strategy games. These can be great for mental stimulation and can also be a fun activity to teach to your children.
Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time, demanding job. But with some planning and a little bit of creativity, you can find joy and fulfillment in your everyday life. It’s about finding the right balance between taking care of your family and taking care of yourself.
And remember, every mom’s journey is unique. What works for one may not work for another. The key is to find what makes you feel fulfilled and happy as a parent. So, take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the ride – it’s worth it!
References
- Single Motherhood and Self-Reliance: This essay discusses the complexities of single motherhood, focusing on the challenges faced during the stay-at-home order, including mental and physical health impacts due to social isolation and an increased workload. The essay also explores strategies and policies that may help mothers cope during such times (Silbergleid, 2020).
- Highly Educated Stay-at-Home Mothers: This study investigates the experiences of highly educated stay-at-home mothers, uncovering the emotional and professional complexities they face. It highlights the importance of self-care for mothers in this situation (Rubin & Wooten, 2007).
- Parental Uncertainty Management: This research explores the uncertainty management processes experienced by parents at home after their child’s discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. It highlights the importance of redefining discharge as an ongoing process that supports parents (White, Gilstrap, & Hull, 2017).
- Trait Judgments of Stay-At-Home and Employed Parents: This study examines how stay-at-home and employed parents are perceived in terms of parenting behaviors and traits. It provides insights into societal views and expectations of parenting roles (Bridges, Etaugh, & Barnes-Farrell, 2002).
- Changes in Parents’ Domestic Labor During COVID-19: This study discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the division of domestic labor among parents, with a focus on how mothers and fathers adapted to new routines and responsibilities (Carlson, Petts, & Pepin, 2020).
- Mothers’ Confidence with Self-Care and Infant Care: This study evaluates mothers’ confidence in caring for themselves and their infants after hospital discharge, providing insights into the importance of self-care skills for new mothers (Kapp, 1998).
- Parental Responsibilities and Gender Equality: This research discusses the shifts and persistent gender differences in parental caregiving responsibilities, offering a critical view on how parental responsibilities are theorized and measured (Doucet, 2015).
- Stay-at-Home Mothers: This paper provides an overview of stay-at-home motherhood as a social construct and discusses the changes in this role over time, reflecting on societal attitudes and economic factors (Gemelli, 2016).