If you’re a parent, chances are you’ve experienced a sense of overwhelm on more than one occasion. This might help.

Packed lunches, pick ups, performances and weekend activities. There’s a lot to navigate when you’re raising a little one – and that doesn’t include catering to your own (important) needs! At Footprints, we believe when parents look after themselves, they do an even better job of looking after their children. But self-care when you’re caring for toddlers can be elusive at the best of times.

Here are some ways that may help you fight the overwhelm from keeping so many balls in the air.

1. Go easy on yourself

Parents are notorious for being too hard on themselves. When you feel responsible for the enormous task of keeping your child healthy and happy, it’s very easy to feel like you’re not doing well enough. Take a moment to stop and look at how much you achieve every day – those packed lunches, pick ups, performances and weekend activities make a huge difference to your child. Give yourself a pat on the back – you deserve it.

2. Remember consistency is key

Life is unpredictable and messy – especially if your home is run by little ones! Establishing routine and consistency where you can will help to maintain a sense of stability (and sanity!) in the face of a million things at once. Children thrive on routine as well; so whether it’s a morning breakfast schedule or bedtime routine – establishing and maintaining daily rituals will benefit all of you. And if you can sneak in something for yourself – such a morning walk or lunchtime yoga class while the kids are at Footprints – even better!

3. Don’t be afraid to share the load

As with many parenting tips, this one is a lot easier said than done. But pressuring yourself to be the super-parent who does it all certainly isn’t easy either. It takes a village, afterall. Humans operate at our best when we’re in balance, and asking for help from a relative or friend – or sending your child to an early learning complex for a few days per week – can help your little one become more adaptive and help you feel more energised and present during your precious time together.

For information about our day rates – or a tour of the centre – feel free to get in touch.