I’m already overwhelmed at the thought of my husband going back to work in a couple weeks. He is so fortunate to get 6 weeks paid paternity leave. But the thought of taking care of these 4 alone is overwhelming! (For the record, I’ve felt this exact same way every time he goes back to work) I’m just not sure how I’m gonna do it! I told myself before my son was born that it’ll be fine and I’m not gonna let myself get worked up about it but here I am.
My mom will come over and help for a few hours a day every other day or so. I have 12 weeks off, so I’ve got another 6 weeks after he goes back to do this alone. Then I go back to work(from home) and my mom will come over and watch the kids while I work. So we help one another when things get hairy.
I do know prioritize the one who needs the most important thing first. And to remember to breathe and be calm. Any other tips or ideas ? I’m frantic
I can only imagine how stressful that must be. I hope everything goes smoothly taking care of the kids alone and going back to work. That’s so nice that you have your mom to help with the kids!
I was so nervous when my husband went back To work after our 3rd baby he only had 2 days off while we’re were in the hospital And then he went back to work and my mom came and stayed the week to help Me get my oldest to school and to help take care of my 3year old. When it was time for her to go back home and go to work I was so nervous and the first few days were crazy because I had to get everyone up And ready to get out the door to get her to school on time (30min away) it was rough for a little while but we made it! you get into a routine and it gets easier. I’m glad your mom is able to help you!
Single mom of 5 here!! my kiddos are 6m, 2yr, 4yr, 6yr, 8yr.
I can not stress this enough- take a moment to breathe!!
Not every day will be the same, some days are going to be overwhelming and you have to remember it is okay to step away for 5 mins and just breathe.
I am a screen mom so if I need to keep 1 kiddo occupied while I deal with the other I put a movie on or pass the tablet.
Ask your other kiddos to help occupy the other kiddos or help you get things, praise them every time! It will make them want to help more!
LEAVE the mess! You’re going to want to get up and clean with every little mess that is made, don’t stress yourself over the mess. With 4 little ones the mess never ends so there’s no point in stressing it.
When baby needs a nap find something quiet for your other kiddos to do- whether it’s coloring, watching a movie, or playing outside.
No lie we spend most the day in our back yard because my older kiddos can run around while baby enjoys the fresh air and watches them- I swear it makes her sleep better too
Feel free to reach out to me if you ever need tips tricks or even just a vent session
Also PRIORITIZING YOURSELF!! With 4 little ones it’s so easy to forget about yourself. When dad gets home from work as him to occupy the kiddos while you shower or eat a meal in peace. Just don’t forget you are still human and also deserve some self care!
You are a saint. How do you do it!?!?! Screen time is unavoidable I think with more than a couple kids. We fought it for quite some time. I think it’s more the content you let the kids watch than the screen itself. We have found ourself doing it more and more but sometimes you just can’t help it our house has been a mess for 3 weeks since we brought our little guy home. Only in the last day or 2 have I started to clean up it is hard to stop yourself from picking up. thank you SO much for all of your advice. I appreciate it greatly.
my kiddos are 6m, 2yr, 4yr, 6yr, 8yr.
