To think it’s just a case of getting through the day…

[Barkinginthedistance]

With toddlers/young children?

Do you ever relax? What do you do at weekends?
Adore Dd, 3, but am often counting down until 7pm.
I remember the old weekends..going back in the archives and actually resting/relaxing/watching films, lazing on the sofa if we wished..now, it’s all go..always..is it the same for everyone?

@Cocomarine

When mine was 3, doing things with her was my relaxation. For example - going swimming. But before children, if I had “me time” I’d be more likely to organise a sports activity that watch a film.

She’s a teen now, and I really miss all the time we had together - cos she sure as hell doesn’t want to spend all day with me now!

You found going swimming with a 3 year old relaxing?? Fun, enjoyable, yes I agree - relaxing? Absolutely not!

Agree! Mine are almost 8, 4 and nearly 5 months. Every day feels like non stop from the minute I am frightened awake at 6am by the 4yo silently staring at me while i sleep until the bedtime struggle is over.
The older 2 get on well for the most part but get frustrated with each other and I feel like all i do is nag.
Harder the last few months with a new baby in the mix and DH works 12 hour days.
I find it easier to just get out of the house. Great in the summer time but even now - wellies, wetsuits and the raincover on the buggy - sorted.

Mine are 4 and 7 and I noticed a huge change when they were 3 and 6.. the physical exertion was over and they can talk, be reasoned with, play together and are independent.. they are just so much LESS work and far MORE enjoyable.

I really needed this thread today.

I am currently lying on the bed procrastinating when I should be doing the online food shop for tomorrow. DH has taken our 3yo and 6mo to the park. In the rain. Bless him.

This is hard bloody work.

Yes, it basically is just exhausting and there isn't much relaxation time. Things that helped us:

Booking an activity first thing on Saturday - football/swimming at 9am if possible - then taking it in turns to take the kid (works less well now we have two but still helpful) so one person gets a break

Using annual leave and putting the kids in nursery - we usually take half the day to do things around the house we don't usually get around to and half the day to do something fun like an art exhibition or a nice lunch

Giving in on screen time a bit - we limit it but the kids get 1-2 hours on tablets during the course of the day and it just gives us a breather

Using babysitters to get some evenings out