Children’s Museum of Richmond

“Who Me? Have time for myself?? That’s impossible!”

Making time for yourself is critical to being a good parent. Here’s 5 reasons why:

Reason #1

“Kids need to learn that they can self-soothe in the parent's absence. They actually benefit from not having their parents constantly tethered to them." - Dr. Bryce Kaye, relationship expert

Reason #2

“We cannot give what we don’t have.”  Judith Graham, University of Maine. Taking time out for ourselves should not be seen as an indulgence or a guilty pleasure, but an essential element of our general health and wellbeing.  We can’t show our children how to care for themselves, if we don’t do it ourselves.

Reason # 3

You’ll be more patient with your kids, and yell less. Part of what you need in your life is some time in your head - time to think, to plan, to dream. Parents who tend to their own personal needs, tend to be more patient and loving with their children.

Reason # 4

A little guilt is better than a lot of anger, if you never have time for yourself. Think about it – do you resent being a parent sometimes? Yes, everyone does from time to time. But if you are spending more of your time being resentful, than not, it’s time for a break.

Reason # 5

Parenting is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to keep reserves of energy and stamina, so you’ll be around for the long haul. Don’t burn out now – your kids need you for the next 20 years, and beyond!

Here’s a few ideas to get you started:

• Get up fifteen minutes early so you can actually sip, rather than gulp, your coffee.
• Visit the public library for some peace and quiet.
• Traveling Taste-Test – Find the best slice of pizza (or bowl of soup) in town.
• Go out after dinner – hear a live band and dance the night away!
• Swap play dates with a neighbor so you can each enjoy a few minutes of solitude.
• Watch the sunset.
• Give yourself permission to say "No" to something you really don't have time for or are not interested in.
• Say "Yes" to something you'd really like to do!

Make time for yourself today – Your kids will thank you later!