Parenting By Audrey Masitsa
The pandemic has brought with it the closure of schools meaning that parents, who are now working from home or have been laid off, are spending even more time with their children. While this is a great opportunity for us to get to know our children better and get more involved in their upbringing, it can get quite challenging to get in some alone time.
I find that getting a few moments alone each day has been good for my mental health and it also helps me to be a better parent.
If you’re struggling to get some alone time, here are some tips.
1. Give them an activity that will keep them occupied for long stretches of time
Kids can be a handful when they are idle. When you’re looking for a bit of alone time, make sure you children are occupied. Get them to do an art project, play with other siblings or watch a show.
2. Go for a drive or walk
Getting some fresh air and sunshine is very good for your mental health. If you can get someone to watch your kids, go for a drive or walk without the kids. It doesn’t have to be long, 10-15 minutes can do the trick leaving you feeling rejuvenated.
3. Ask them to give you some time alone
If you have older kids, asking them to give you a half hour alone can help. Like above, ensure they have an activity to keep them occupied during this time when you can take a nap, do your nails, read a few chapters of your book or catch up on a hobby.
3. Take your time getting ready in the morning
One of the things that sets me up for the day is the time I take to get ready. I use this as my alone time. Practice mindfulness when applying your lotion, taking the time to massage it into your skin. Enjoy the scent of your deodorant and perfume. Be purposeful about what you choose to wear.
4. Wake up early or stay up late
The time your kids are asleep to get in some self care. This could be by waking up earlier or staying up a little later, whatever rocks your boat.
5. Let your partner look after your kids
It’s okay to ask for help. You’re not failing as a parent if you admit that you need a break. So ask your partner to watch them for a while so that you have a few minutes alone.
6. Take a break together
This might sound counterproductive but taking time out as a family can be an ideal way to get alone time. You don’t have to do the same activities during this time. Your kids can be watching a movie as you catch up on your reading. Or they could be reading or colouring as you call a friend.
7. Spend time with them
Kids can get clingy when they want attention. Give them this much needed attention and then watch as they settle down to entertaining themselves giving you some alone time.
8. Schedule time within your day for self-care
Get intentional about self-care by including time in your day when you’ll step away from the rat race. Mine is in the morning when I’m getting ready. It could also be when your child is taking a nap or at 5pm when you leave the kids with your husband and go for a walk. Having a schedule will ensure that you actually take the time out for self-care.
If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?