Feeling guilty for having days at home

[littleraysofsunshine]

It's one of those days where I feel so tired and have no energy to do much. I have a almost three year old, 15month old and 21 weeks pregnant.. Both dd's haven't slept well this past week as they seem a bit run down from our holiday. So I haven't had a lot of sleep. I also think they need a bit of down time and not a week jam packed. We did a playgroup yesterday. Usually two-three times a week as dd doesn't have her nursery place until she's 4!

I just feel guilty for not getting them out the house. And were all feeling grotty we all seem grumpy. They usually play lovely but keep scrapping over toys, and wanting my undivided attention at all times even when they usually are happy to do their own playing. I play with them, but also feel that they need time to use their own imaginations to play. Whilst I do household tasks, or take five mins break to have a tea..

Most of the time it's fantastic! But the days when you feel rotten make you feel like the crappest parent alive where you don't have the energy to do it all!

Anyone relate?

How much time do you give your dc's to play with them every day? Especially when at home

[anchovies]

These are the days where cbeebies comes into its own! You are human (with a lot on your plate!) don't feel guilty. My three are all at school now but I can clearly remember how you are feeling. Now they are older and they can say what they want to do they all opt for a PJ day on a regular basis!

[QTPie]

If you do all feel grotty, is there a local park that you can take them too? And either but a tea/coffee on the way or take an insulated cup of hot drink from home?

I agree about "quiet week to wind down", but when things go pear shaped, it is normally a sign to get outdoors. We spend lots of time "out" if only at the park. Even if you are tired, the fresh air tends to make you feel better.

Also, will they watch a DVD/film? Have you tried it and just closed your eyes on the sofa and caught up on 5/10 minutes.

[littleraysofsunshine]

DVDs have been on the agenda this week too, dd1 will watch, but dd2 isn't that interested. They are good bless them. We'll pop out once she's awake to their Grampy's.

Getting out does help, vote for fresh air, sometimes it's the getting everything sorted to get out the door part that's hard lol

Dd1 doesn't nap in the day so I don't. We're currently sat sharing a bowl of apples

[QTPie]

DS (3 years 8 months) doesn't nap any more either... If I am really tired, I put a DVD on and curl round him on the sofa (so I know if he is up to something): good for a regenerating 20 minutes or so ;)

[Oblomov]

Why do you feel guilty? Has someone told you that you need to do x hours of entertaining and activities every day?
I don't. And I don't feel guilt.