Mum guilt over not having the energy constantly

[thesegoto11]

My DD is 5.5 months and needs constant interaction when not napping, but she barely naps in the day which makes it harder. My DH works really long hours, just part of the job so I’m left to it a lot of the time.

I love being a mum and spending time with her. Occasionally though I just don’t have the energy to keep doing stuff so put her in the jumperoo, or her playmat so I can have a few minutes to just do nothing and watch her.

I guess I’m looking for reassurance as I feel guilty sometimes that I just don’t have anything left to give at times.

Embrace benign neglect. Mum guilt is crippling.

If you keep this up you really will be exhausted!

Get her used to being by herself, build up gradually. If she won’t nap then try fiddling with her sleeping schedule till she does, or at least start ‘quiet time’.

She doesn’t need constant attention, and it’s actively good for her to explore the works by herself. Even at that age boredom is a driver.

Explore THE WORLD by herself

Channel the mum guilt into doing what you need to do. More breaks, more fun for you by the sounds of it! Don’t let it cripple you.

She needs to be on her playmat to kick her legs..practice turning over whenever that happens..etc.so that is not neglect that is essential for her physical development. So say to yourself or her when you are putting her down..now it's time to get your exercise so you will feel positive about it. Same with jumperoo. If you are doing chores you can chat to her as you work telling her what you are doing. And when she naps sit down and relax..no guilt

At 5 months I was taking full advantage of the fact that they can’t move and need v little at this age apart from being breastfed or sleep and lots of cuddles. I watched loads of series (obviously only with my first was this possible!!) and did things I liked to do , long walks , coffee while they were in the pram etc. Seriously op take this time to recover and rest , I can’t emphasise how much more interaction and playing you’ll end up doing when they are toddlers , it’s sooo much more full on then in my experience of having children.
Take this time for you , don’t feel guilty , 5 month olds just need food, cuddles and you need to chill and recover from birth, you’ll be a doing so much more interaction whether you like it or not when they are toddlers!!!

I’m thinking back to my LO being 5 months old and in terms of ‘play’ he didn’t really do much? Play mat was about it. I took him to sensory classes, if you can’t do that perhaps look online and do some at home with bits around the house?

honestly though, I know she’s a bit young yet but independent play is so important for children as it’s when their imagination comes to life the most.

the only thing I’d say though is ditch the jumparoo. They’re really bad for babies (yes, even in moderation for those who are going to accuse me of being ridiculous).

What’s wrong with the jumperoo? Never heard that it’s bad for babies. She’s not in it long tho