Slowly losing your mind? Here’s 5 ways to beat parenting boredom
Parenting is wonderful for the most part. The smiles, the ‘firsts’ and the cuddles are all moments we cherish. But it’s not all like the fuzzy, warm baby ads. In amongst the joy, there’s a fair amount of frustration, monotony and a ton of boredom.
Days parenting young babies or toddlers can feel endless. The repetitive structure and routine means every day can start to feel like Groundhog Day. From the minute your eyes open, you go into autopilot – making meal after meal, getting out a variety of toys, putting them back, getting out the books, putting them back, putting the baby down, picking him up… soon enough filling up the bath feels like a holiday.
There’s no way to truly conquer the boredom that can come with parenting little ones. But there are ways which can help. Here are some worth a try.
1. Socialising with like-minded mums
Meeting up with other mums is a good way to break up the day. It’s nice to feel comfort in the knowledge that you’re not alone on this parenting rollercoaster. Comparing notes and frustrations can provide relief and having a laugh is good for the soul. If you don’t know any mums in your area, you can google where your nearest playgroup is. There are a raft of Mother’s Groups built around like-minded interests, such as Carlile Swimming, where you can hang out with your baby and a bunch of other mums while your little one learns to swim. There’s also Hike it Baby a global organisation that hosts fun walks all over the world and locally with loads of parents. All you need are your trainers, your tot and a comfortable baby carrier. Not into physical stuff? Try a Bubs Club – Event Cinemas screen movies where the sound is turned down low, the light is dimmed and breast-feeding is welcomed.
2. Getting out
It’s amazing how much better you feel when you get out of the house. While toddler classes and the park aren’t necessarily the most exciting places in the world, it can feel less suffocating than your own four walls. An hour also passes a lot quicker when you’re not purposely looking at the clock. Well, ok, looking at the clock only every five minutes instead of two.
3. Try an exercise class with a crèche
Pre-children it was hard to associate the gym with ‘down time’. However, this changes once you become a parent. Finding a gym that has a good crèche can be a lifeline for both your sanity and catching a break. Plus, it doesn’t do your little one any harm to learn to be without you for a bit.
4. Take time out
It’s not easy to find time for yourself when you’re a parent. But, if you can, there’s nothing better to break the monotony. Just a day in daycare means you get time to use your brain in a different capacity – even if it’s going to the shops, booking a massage or catching up on Netflix in peace.
5. Mix up your routine
It’s true that most babies and toddlers respond best to routine. But mixing up your schedule a bit doesn’t destroy this. Organising different activities or social outings can give you something different to look forward to and help kick that groundhog to the curb.