Taking the parent hat off

So usually I write my blog on a Friday on my Friday Feelings page but as mothers day is on the horizon I thought I would post on my Parenting Adventures page. 

I filmed my Monthly Mother and Baby Chat video yesterday (click here to see previous vlog) where I give an update each month about my son, any new changes, things I have learnt since being a mum for the first time, give my own tips and advice that may help other parents, and on certain subjects that have helped me and I know will help someone else who may be watching, I last time talked about having a routine, and this one I rose the subject of taking some time out from parenting, because I do think it is important. 

We appear to a lot of the time, put ourselves at the back of the queue a lot, but we do need to take care of ourselves, and at least put ourselves second at times. 

If we are shattered, we aren't going to have the energy to take our son to the park, or your daughter to her activity club, or be in the best mood to give your child your full attention. 

Taking time out, doesn't mean abandoning your role as a parent, as we should stop the feelings of guilt, the emotions of "I am a bad parent" because we just want some time out, because we do at times. 

Your child needs some time away aswell to help with their independence making sure they are cared for by someone you trust, even if it is just for an afternoon, so you can catch up on some reading, sorting out some toys, have a pampering evening with your girl mates, or meeting up with friends. It is just getting yourself back, for an hour or an evening or so. 

My husband and I will set a date in our calendar to make sure we book a date for my son to be baby sat by my lovely mum, and we will go out for a meal or a drink, see a show in our local theatre, go out for the day to our favourite place, Southbank London and just have some time out. 

It is one of the reasons I work at the weekend's. I will admit at times it is hard, because I am tempted to stay at home, but it is just is nice not just because I am earning a bit of money again, but because it gives me some time out to focus on something else for 7 hours on a Saturday and Sunday. 

Reading a lot of books on parenting I have not come across a section that dedicates to this, as it should because we do need to recuperate so we can be the best parent we can be, and just be able to have some alone time aswell. 

I love my son to pieces and would not change it for the world. However it is just nice to take a little time out just for myself or just for myself and my husband so we can take our parent hat off and have some time not worrying about getting back in time for our son's feed, or trying to get back to miss the rush hour to get on the train and off, with the pushchair. 

So don't feel bad if you want a break and take your parent hat off then do, because it does benefit both yourself and your child. They will see that even though mum and dad have gone for a few hours, they will soon be back to spend time with them again.  

Many thanks for reading and have a good weekend, 


Carrie X 

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