The best of both worlds
Being a stay at home mom, wife, and homemaker is truly a great calling, and a huge blessing. Not everyone is able to quit their day job to do so. However, when faced with a full house and full list of responsibilities- it can feel overwhelming. Balancing taking care of your home and pouring into your little ones can require your full energy and attention.
Take it from me. Trying to entertain my kids while also cleaning don't coincide. I often have found a few ways to manage the two, without saving my to-do list for nap time.
One very helpful thing to remember is that your kids don't want to be distracted, they want to be included and involved in the day to day things that you are doing. By this I mean, give them responsibility. Allow them to help you. My two year old loves putting clothes in the washer/dryer. He loves helping pick up toys and/or throw away trash. He loves being given a specific job.
Here's what to do
1. One of the best things you can do is create somewhat of a routine. We have a "loose" routine in our house daily that we follow. Not only do kids thrive off routine but they know what to expect next. If you set up a time daily that is dedicated to chores, or food prep, your children will know that it's time and you can invite them to help. Believe it or not, they may even start to look forward to it, or ask if it's time yet!
2. Take some time to mentally note some different responsibilities that your child can do. If they're too little for this, they can play while you tackle some tasks. If they're old enough to help, incorporate the things they can do into your daily routine. When your folding laundry, have them bring you some clothes/put clothes in a basket. While you're doing dishes, ask them to put (non breakable) dishes in the dishwasher or have them help you dry them. If you are prepping dinner, they can help put items in a bowl or stir ingredients together. The thing is, yes it may take longer to get your task done if your toddler is helping you- but sometimes it's good to slow down and truthfully your child will love it and likely become core memories.
3. I do save the bigger more focus required tasks for when they're napping or playing independently. This can help if you have a lot to do or just need to get things done in a timely manner. Every day I have at least 3-4 tasks/chores in the homemaking category that I get to do. I space them out throughout the week so that I don't have to dedicate an entire day to chores on the weekend. This is time that our family gets to rest and be together. This also helps me balance it all, without feeling overwhelmed and still getting to spend good quality time with my kids each day.
4. If your kids are old enough that they're being homeschooled, you can incorporate chores into their routine or prep dinner while they're doing their daily lesson. Helping out around the house in and of itself can be a lesson. Especially if you have a daughter! Homemaking 101!
Remember that if your routines everyday feel overwhelming you can always adjust, pivot, and ask for help!
Happy Homemaking!
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