To not be coping with toddler?

[Teallp]

When does it get better?

Does it get better?

I am a single parent but ex usually has dc (18 months) one day a week. He refuses to do more but will do the whole day ie 8am to 7pm.

I struggle with it all. The constant mental load (a term I never thought I would use!). The constant thoughts about someone else. The stress of juggling work and nursery. The financial burden of running the house alone.

I just want time on my own. I want to be left alone. Of course I love my dc. I just don’t know how much longer I can manage with every waking moment being about dc, or about work.

it does get easier. Toddlers are a difficult age, more difficult than a baby because they can be so defiant. Can you outsource anything? Cleaning ect, so you can free up some time?

I have a supportive husband and a part time nanny and work freelance and I'm still completely fucking drowning over here. So much admiration for you and how you're coping, you're a far stronger woman than I. Not that it should have to be this way for you- ironically in this scenario historically women would have had so much more support.

Urgh, I hate the paltry "you got this" type comments (like what use is that to me!) but you are doing incredibly well and I'm sorry your twat ex isn't pulling his weight more. There is so much more to parenting than a couple of hours in a block once a week, he has nothing of the 24 7 mental load you do (these Emily Oster slides explain it better than i can) https://www.instagram.com/p/CvXtmAXxjfT/?igsh=MWRhaDJqZDBmNTlldw==

^mine is also nearly 18 months

It does get better. And then sometimes it gets worse again.

It gets better when they start to go to things that don't involve you - nursery, pre-school etc. When they start to be able to watch a half hour tv programme so you can get things done. When they can communicate their needs better. When they sleep more. When you get real support from someone. When you work out a routine that suits everyone. When you're not so exhausted. It's bloody tough and you don't get any recognition for the sacrifices you make.

IMO that’s the worst age. It gets much better when their language skills develop enough to be able to express their wants and needs, and to understand you better. For us that was about 2.5.

Solidarity here! It's a huge exhausting rush and I miss maternity leave summers with the pram so much!

I have a nearly 18 month old and a newborn, it's fun in our house !! You have my sympathy op. Send help!