Parenting is the ultimate balancing act, isn’t it? One moment, you’re soothing tantrums, the next, you’re melting into bedtime snuggles, and somehow, you’re also juggling a mental to-do list that feels never-ending. It’s beautiful, messy, and heart-wrenchingly rewarding. But here’s the truth: how caring for your kids can teach you to care for yourself is a lesson we often forget in the chaos of it all. Somewhere in the mix, there’s you—feeling like an afterthought.
The other day, I found myself snapping over spilled water—it wasn’t about the water; it was about me. I was running on empty. I remembered what I often tell my preschoolers: “Let’s take a moment to reset.” So, I paused, refilled my own cup (literally, with tea), and gave myself permission to slow down. That small reset shifted the entire day. Here’s the truth: Parenting and self-care go hand in hand. I know it sounds impossible when your days feel like a whirlwind, but hear me out. The way we care for our kids—nurturing, teaching, and cheering them on—can actually teach us how to care for ourselves.
The trick is remembering that we matter too. And I know that’s easier said than done, but today, I want to share a few lessons I’ve learned as both a parent and an early childhood educator. These aren’t the obvious “stick to a routine” tips; they’re thoughtful, practical, and rooted in real life. My hope is that you’ll walk away feeling a little lighter, a little inspired, and maybe even ready to pour yourself that second cup of tea.
Parenting and Self-Care | Why Caring for Yourself Matters
It’s funny, isn’t it? We spend so much time teaching our kids to listen to their bodies, to rest when they’re tired, and to embrace joy in the little things. But how often do we actually follow our own advice? Here’s what I’ve learned: the way we show up for ourselves directly impacts the way we show up for our kids. When we’re running on empty, everything feels harder—patience runs thin, joy feels distant, and even the smallest mess can send us over the edge. But when we care for ourselves, even in the tiniest ways, we’re modelling something beautiful for our kids: that well-being isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
Looking for more ideas to embrace self-care as a busy mama? Check out this guide to making self-care work in the chaos of motherhood.
Teaching Insights for Parenting and Self-Care
My years as an early childhood educator have taught me so much—not just about kids, but about life. And some of those lessons have been lifesavers in my parenting journey. Here are a few that I think every parent should hear:
1. Play-Based Learning: Joy Isn’t a Luxury
Kids don’t need fancy toys or schedules to thrive—they just need play. It’s how they grow, connect, and make sense of the world. But guess what? Play isn’t just for kids. As adults, we’ve forgotten how healing and energising play can be. When we make space for joy, even in the smallest ways, we’re reconnecting with a part of ourselves that’s often buried under the weight of responsibility.
Try this: Today, let yourself play. Dance in the kitchen, colour with your kids, or try something silly just because it feels good. Parenting and self-care both thrive when you make space for joy.
2. Reflection: Pause, Breathe, Grow
In teaching, reflection is where the magic happens. It’s not about blaming yourself for what went wrong; it’s about recognising what worked and finding grace for the rest. As parents, we can use reflection to let go of guilt and approach challenges with a calmer, clearer mindset.
Try this: At the end of the day, jot down one moment that made you proud and one that taught you something. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
3. Environment as the Third Teacher: Find Your Calm
The Reggio Emilia philosophy emphasizes that the spaces we create influence how we feel. A cluttered room can feel overwhelming, while a calm, intentional space can bring clarity. As parents, our environment can either fuel the chaos or create small pockets of peace. For a straightforward overview of the Reggio Emilia approach, this article from Parents magazine offers valuable insights.
Try this: Pick one corner of your home and make it yours. It could be a bedside table, a corner of the kitchen, or even your favorite mug on the counter. Keep it simple, soothing, and yours.
4. Kindness: Start with You
We teach our kids to be kind to others, but how often do we extend that same kindness to ourselves? Parenting is hard, and it’s okay to have messy days. The way we talk to ourselves matters—because our kids are always listening.
Try this: Next time you catch yourself being critical, pause. Replace it with something kinder, like “I’m doing my best,” or “Today was tough, but tomorrow is a new chance.”
5. Transitions: The Magic of In-Between Moments
Transitions are often where connection happens—those quiet moments between the big stuff. Instead of rushing through the bedtime routine or the morning chaos, what if we slowed down, even just a little? These are the moments that often matter most.
Try this: Pick one transition today—maybe it’s bedtime or the school drop-off—and turn it into a moment of connection. A hug, a shared laugh, or just a deep breath can change everything.
How Parenting Teaches Us to Care for Ourselves
Parenting and self-care aren’t separate—they’re deeply connected. When we take the time to care for ourselves, we’re modelling something powerful for our kids. We’re showing them that they deserve to rest, to play, and to be kind to themselves, too. So here’s my challenge for you: Start small. Maybe it’s carving out five minutes to play, setting up a calming space, or simply pausing to reflect on what’s working. The care you give yourself doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to start somewhere.
What’s one thing you’ll do for yourself today? Let me know in the comments, or join my TEA-m for more honest conversations, simple tips, and a whole lot of encouragement. Together, we’ll keep filling our cups—one sip, one step, and one small win at a time.
Parenting teaches us the beauty of giving—but it also reminds us to give to ourselves. When we pause, reflect, and care for our own well-being, we’re not just filling our cups—we’re teaching our kids to do the same.
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