Day 47

This morning, I awoke to my 21-month-old slapping a used Band-Aid gently on my face. Ah, a new day.

What does coping look like as a parent of small children right now? For me, it looks like lowering my expectations (especially of myself), tuning in to what each member of my family needs, and claiming time for myself.

Baking is my therapy. Going on evening walks while listening to my favorite podcasts helps me unwind after the day. Catching up with friends fills me up. Insisting on at least one hour per day when our oldest has quiet time in her room and our youngest takes a nap gives me a little break midday. Having adult conversations with my husband after our kids are asleep keeps us sane.

I asked around to see how other parents of young children are taking care of themselves during this time. Here’s what they shared:

• “I’ve stuck to our usual nighttime routine, so I give myself some downtime when the kids go to bed. I’ve also been better about relaxing during their naps/quiet times. Usually I try to get all the things done, and that’s stopped.”

• “I’ve let go of my day-to-day expectations. That seems to help.”

• “I’m trying really hard to focus on the silver linings and savor them when they pass through my mind. Today my kids were having just as much fun in our backyard above ground pool as they did last year at a fancy resort pool. I watched their smiles today and realized we have everything we need here at home.”

• “For me, it’s my hobbies. Crocheting and writing. My husband gives me alone time each day to focus on my hobbies while he loves on our boy.”

• “Continuing to talk with my friends over video or text has been super important. It’s something to look forward to in the evenings. Even when I’m exhausted, I can freshen up, grab a drink and chat with friends about their lives.”

• “Our neighborhood suddenly became this amazing community of helpers. We shared supplies that were hard to find and were in constant communication through our neighborhood chat—‘Do you need this…?’ ‘We have extra….’ ‘Does anyone need me to pick up something from the store so two people don’t have to be unnecessarily exposed?’ In the midst of fear, anxiety and uncertainty, friendliness and care for others became bright stars in a dark period.”

If you’re counting down the days until you can drop the kids off at Grandma’s or call the babysitter for a respite, I see you in your struggle. These are long days, friend. You are not alone, and you’re doing a great job. Whatever your routine looks like, take it one day at a time, and build in time for yourself.

Amy McCloskey
Director of Special Events

Corona Chronicles Part 1

Check out Part 3 of Amy’s Corona Chronicles this Thursday, June 18.