Summer break is approaching, and while the end of the school year brings excitement for family time and lazy days, many moms feel a familiar knot forming in their stomachs. My son just graduated from pre-school and is now home full-time, which means no more quiet mornings with coffee, no more uninterrupted phone calls, and definitely no more solo grocery runs. But here’s the truth: you can still prioritize your well-being even with the kids home 24/7. In fact, it’s more important than ever.
Why Self-Care Matters More During Summer Break
When you’re “on” as a parent around the clock, your emotional and physical reserves deplete faster than usual. Summer break can feel like an endurance test, but sustainable parenting requires you to refill your own cup regularly. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s modeling healthy habits for your children and ensuring you have the energy to be present for all those memory-making moments.
Morning Rituals That Work With Kids Around
Wake up 15 minutes earlier—if you can. Let’s be real here: if your kids are anything like mine, you won’t be waking up earlier than them! My little guy seems to have a sixth sense about when I try to sneak in some alone time. So instead of setting yourself up for disappointment, prioritize rest whenever you can get it. Those precious few minutes of quiet might come at naptime, during a movie, or even while they’re absorbed in independent play.
Include the kids in gentle movement. Try family yoga videos, dance parties in the living room, or nature walks. You’re getting your endorphins while creating fun memories together.
Establish quiet time for everyone. Even if your kids have outgrown naps, institute a daily “quiet hour” where everyone retreats to their own spaces. Use this time for whatever fills you up—reading, crafting, or just lying down.
Smart Strategies for Busy Summer Days
Prep when possible. Sunday meal prep isn’t just for work weeks. Having healthy snacks portioned and easy meals ready reduces daily decision fatigue and gives you more time for yourself.
Create activity rotations. Set up different stations around your home or yard that kids can cycle through independently. While they’re engaged, you can squeeze in that phone call with a friend or do some stretches.
Embrace “good enough.” The house doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect, and dinner can be simple. Lower your standards temporarily and redirect that energy toward caring for yourself.
Finding Your Village This Summer
Organize kid swaps with other parents. Take turns watching each other’s children for a few hours. It’s free childcare and gives everyone a break.
Join or create mom groups. Many communities have informal mom meetups at parks where kids can play while adults connect. Social support is crucial for mental health.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s having grandparents take the kids for an afternoon or asking your partner to handle bedtime solo, accepting help isn’t failing—it’s being smart.
Micro Self-Care Moments
Sometimes self-care needs to happen in tiny pockets throughout the day. Here are ways to nurture yourself in just a few minutes:
Take five deep breaths in the car before heading into the grocery store. This simple reset can shift your entire energy.
Listen to a favorite song while folding laundry. Music can instantly boost your mood and make mundane tasks more enjoyable.
Step outside for a moment. Fresh air and a change of scenery can work wonders, even if it’s just on your front porch.
Text a supportive friend. Connection doesn’t always require long conversations—sometimes a quick check-in is enough.
Setting Boundaries With Love
Teaching your children that you have needs too is a gift to them. Explain that taking care of yourself helps you be a better mom. Create visual cues like a special bracelet or sign that means “mom needs a few minutes” and train your kids to respect these moments unless it’s an emergency.
Planning Ahead for Success
Schedule self-care like any other appointment. Put it in your calendar and honor it. Whether it’s a weekly coffee date with yourself or a monthly massage, having something to look forward to makes a difference.
Prepare for challenging times. Keep a list handy of quick mood boosters for those overwhelming moments—funny videos, inspiring quotes, or a favorite essential oil to smell.
Remember that seasons change. Summer break is temporary. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s completely normal.
Making It Sustainable
The key to summer self-care isn’t finding huge blocks of time—it’s weaving small acts of kindness toward yourself throughout each day. Maybe it’s brewing tea in your favorite mug, taking a longer shower, or spending five minutes on your front steps watching the sunrise.
Your children are learning how to treat themselves by watching how you treat yourself. When they see you prioritizing your well-being alongside theirs, you’re teaching them that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
This summer, give yourself permission to matter. You’re not just surviving until school starts again; you’re creating a sustainable way to thrive as both a devoted mother and a whole person. You deserve both the chaos of family life and the peace of caring for yourself.
Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup, but you also don’t need to wait until it’s completely full to start giving. Small, consistent acts of self-care will keep you going strong all summer long.
The Balanced Mom
Wishing you the best summer with your little’s!
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