Summer is here again, signaling the time for fun in the sun. However, finding a minute for yourself is practically impossible when you have little ones around.

Juggling household chores and child care, among other responsibilities, can be all-consuming. Even superheroes must recharge. To be the best version of yourself, you need self-care to maintain your well-being. 

Here are seven practical ways stay-at-home moms (SAHM) can have me-time this summer, no matter how busy you are.

1.   Sign Kids Up for Summer Programs 

Enroll your kids in summer programs to keep them busy so you can get some time for yourself. Look into local options like half-day camps, music classes, playgroups, and educational or sports training events. 

Even if the program is once a week or just a few hours a day, you’ll be grateful for those moments of peace. Use this free time to relax, catch up on sleep, read a book, visit a spa day, or run those solo errands you’ve been putting off.

2.   Embrace the Outdoors

Take advantage of outdoor activities during summer. Being cooped up in the house can get old, but some time in the fresh air can quickly rejuvenate you. 

Take a walk with your toddler in the stroller. The rhythmic movement might even lull them to sleep, giving you some quiet time to enjoy the scenery. If your child is more mobile, go to the park and schedule a meeting with a friend there. You can enjoy adult conversation while the children play.

If your children can stay with their grandparents for a night or two, create a backyard oasis where you can relax and enjoy the sun. Settle back in a comfy chair, read a good book, and have a cold drink, or set up a tent and camp out with your partner in the backyard. Escaping outside will feel like a mini-vacation for those who can’t go on an actual getaway. 

3.   Take Advantage of Nap Time 

Take advantage of your child’s nap time to recharge. Get some rest yourself to clear the sleep deficit that has been making you weary all morning. 

If you don’t need a nap, set up an at-home spa, enroll in an online course, or work on a hobby. Activities like these will help you regain your sense of self. Recharging your batteries will make you a happier, more energized mom when the little one wakes up. 

4.   Partner up for Playtime

If your partner works full-time, it can be challenging to split up the parental duties. They may not realize how exhausting it can be to take care of the kids all day. Make sure to communicate your feelings to your partner and find ways that they can lighten your load. 

For example, have your partner take over the bedtime routine on weeknights. Your kids will appreciate the one-on-one time after your spouse has been at work all day, and it will give you time to read, shower, or watch TV. You can also have your partner be in charge of weekend obligations, like sports games or birthday parties. 

5.   Do Errands With a Twist

With the kids home 24/7, who says errands can’t be fun?

Doing chores together will teach your children responsibility, provide them with a sense of accomplishment, and help them develop essential life skills. For example, you can turn cleaning into a game, like arranging a race to see who picks up their toys the fastest. Create systems to reward children for completing tasks as a form of positive reinforcement.

Turn errands into enjoyable outings. Take the kids along grocery shopping and let them pick out items you read on a list. At the library, browse for your next book while your child explores the children’s section. Doing so will enable you to squeeze time in for yourself as you go through your to-do list. 

6.   Join Local Mom Groups

Find local mom support groups or join online communities for SAHM. These spaces allow you to share experiences, get advice, and make new friends. Some even offer self-care sessions that offer mindful classes in yoga or meditation — the perfect break for a mental refresh.

Connect with your mom friends and form a support group of your own. Organize playdates and swap babysitting duties with fellow mothers. Use this time to do anything that makes you feel good.

7.   Hire Child Care

If you have the resources, invest in a reliable and qualified babysitter occasionally. This will free up your time for other activities. Hiring child care is ideal for SAHMs who want to spend an afternoon by themselves or meet up with friends for lunch.

Even gyms nowadays offer childcare services for moms who are members. If you love to work out, join a child-friendly fitness club and drop the kids off at the care center. They can even take swim lessons or play sports while you’re exercising.

Why You Need Me-Time

Setting time aside for yourself is not selfish — it’s necessary and prevents resentment from building against your family members. The benefits of me-time include:

• Relieves stress and anxiety
• Uplifts mood
• Boosts energy levels
• Develops patience and parenting skills
• Improves physical health

Prioritize your well-being to be the best version of yourself for your family.

Make Me-Time a Habit

You deserve a break. Caring for yourself will make you a more patient and happy parent. All it takes is a bit of planning to tackle the daily demands of family while still finding time to set aside for yourself and make the most of it.