5 Tips for Staying Sane With Kids

As my pregnancy progresses, I’m finding it harder and harder to stay sane. Those hormones mixed with two energetic toddlers sometimes leaves me frazzled, or even worse, losing my temper. I searched the other night on Pinterest “Tips for Staying Sane with Kids” and found a plethora of ideas. Here are the top 5 that have worked best for me.

1. Wake Up a Half Hour Before the Kids Do

This tip is the one that makes the biggest difference. I don’t know about you, but I am not a morning person. The thought of getting a half hour LESS sleep with small children in the house seemed about as appealing as letting my toddler skip nap time. However, in practice, waking up and collecting yourself at the start of your day makes a world of difference in saving your sanity. I would say ESPECIALLY if you’re not a morning person, you should set your alarm for a half hour before your kids usually wake up. It helps me have some quiet time and get off on the right foot, mentally prepared to face the challenges of the day with toddlers.

2. Exercise Often

Chasing your kids around the house doesn’t count. Take the time to build exercise into your weekly routine for numerous reasons: it improves your mental endurance, boosts mood & energy levels, releases tension, and helps your body feel better. I could list many more benefits of regular exercise, but I think the point is if you exercise–even simply doing yoga at home–you will find staying sane with kids easier.

3. Explore Pastimes & Other Interests

I think as parents we find it so easy to get wrapped up in our roles as mom/dad and push aside our other interests. This is especially true if you’re a working parent; there just aren’t enough hours in the day. Of course it’s important to foster your children’s interests, but if your kids are over-scheduled and you’re not finding time to pursue your own hobbies, a little part of you will go crazy. All of us need to explore our interests and do things for ourselves sometimes, even if it doesn’t make you money. It’s good for you to indulge in a good book, join a photography class, or learn underwater basket weaving (yeah, that’s a thing).

source

4. Seek Other Friends Succeeding in Staying Sane With Kids

I’m a firm believer in the power of friendship. As I’ve struggled with my volatile emotions this pregnancy, my alone time with friends is what has helped a lot in keeping me sane. I try to surround myself with friends I admire and look up to. There’s no need for jealousy, only for learning from each other. That’s why I gravitate towards friends who seem to parent effortlessly, staying sane with their kids like it’s no big deal. These are the friends I seek out and spend time with.

5. Take a Break

Parenting is a 24/7 gig, especially if you’re a SAHP. Staying sane with kids involves taking a break sometimes, big or small. Take a break from bickering with your 4 year old know it all and put yourself in “time-out.” Take a break from the monotony of the week and plan a date with your spouse.  Take a break from the life you built and go on a vacation. We all need a break sometimes, no matter how much you love your kids or how wonderful the life you live might be.

Thanks for reading! Be sure to check out more of my parenting articles below.