Stay at Home Parenting & Stress
Take Time for Yourself
Stay at home parents are becoming more popular than in times past, and it's no wonder with the expense of childcare, and the hassle of finding someone trustworthy, that more parents are choosing to stay at home when feasible. When parents have more than one child that is pre-school age, it is sometimes the only option due to expense.
The stay at home parent can become stressed and overwhelmed, especially when they don't adhere to a routine. A routine helps a person keep control of the events of everyday life. Make a schedule of daily events to get parent and child into a daily routine. Pick some chores for the child to participate in. These could be simple things like picking up their toys, cleaning their room, or helping with household chores.
Daily one-on-one time with children should be incorporated into daily routines. This time should be spent doing some fun things with the child as well as some educational activities. Age appropriate reading or math workbooks, reading a story together, playing games, or playing make believe with the child are all things that can be done as a stay at home parent. A child's laughter can help ease tensions and stress.
Set Boundaries
Set limits and boundaries for the child. Do not allow them to misbehave just because they are not at a structured daycare. Simple things such as not climbing on furniture or allowing junk food before meals are two examples of undesired behavior. Children without limits and boundaries can become difficult to manage, leaving the parent feeling out of control and overwhelmed.
When planning a daily schedule, don't have more things scheduled than can be done. A little relaxation and down time is important for child and parent. Children could nap, if age appropriate, while the parent does some simple chores such as: ironing, fixing supper, or taking time out for yourself.
Stay at home parents need to take some time each day to relax and pamper yourself. When appropriate, make a date with your spouse or significant other. Stress levels can be lessened and time can be taken to enjoy a little adult time.
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