Being a mom is hard. And for those of you who are experiencing this joy for the first time, you may be wondering how you are going to keep your sanity. Every day you change, feed, burp, rock, and love on your new baby. But you may begin to wonder if your life will ever be more than changing dirty diapers. However, the best advice for stay-at-home moms is to get out as much as possible.
Perhaps the only thing you have to talk about is how many times your baby pooped for the day. But the daily poop report can get tiring. And as a parent, you can go stir-crazy rather quickly. This is especially true when you haven’t gone back to work or plan on staying home with the baby even longer. So, here are best tips for homebound moms who need a breather.
Advice for Stay-at-Home Moms: Find a Mom’s Group
The internet has made finding like-minded individuals and groups of similar people easier. You can look online and on Facebook for Moms groups in your area. Some common group names, websites, and organizations you could search for include:
- Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)
- Meetup.com
- CircleofMoms.com
- Mothers Offering Mothers Support (MOMS)
Being a stay-at-home parent is hard. And getting out the door with your new baby is difficult. Also, finding the time and energy and motivation to work out as a new parent is a huge challenge. So why not find some similarly burdened parents who also need help and motivation? You could even round up some of your friends and create your own group.
You can work together to achieve your fitness goals. So, set a time and get out of your homes together to walk with the stroller, hike, do storytime yoga, or whatever you like. And as you talk, you can share your top advice for stay-at-home moms, too.
A New Outlook for Moms: Attend a Local Class
Look into your local community college or library or community center for adult classes you may be interested in taking. You don’t have to bring your baby with you every time you get out for the day. Perhaps just once a week you can take a class to improve a hobby like your photography skills or cake decorating.
But whatever you do, make a sure you get out and have some fun. You could also sign up for classes for you and your baby, like baby swim classes. Being around other adults and learning together will make you a happier mom. And, a happy mom means a happier baby, too.
A Local Resource: Look into Your Library
Most local libraries will have one or more programs you can bring your new baby to and get out of the house. Programs like Storytime or Book Babies are great. And they can even improve your reading relationship with your child. The library may also have some classes and programs for you to get involved in, as well.
Most libraries today have extensive websites where you can explore programs and then sign up for them. So, be sure to use this valuable community resource. You could even meet other moms and dads and share experiences. And if you need expert advice for stay-at-home moms like yourself, there are lots of great parenting books there, too.
Get Involved with Your Local Church or Community Programs
Look into your local recreation or community center for programs. Also, check your local church for classes and programs for adults and babies. Some rec centers have a co-op child daycare you can attend with your new baby and other children.
And most local programs are either free or at a low cost, too. You can meet other stay-at-home parents, get some adult conversation and have fun. And who knows, maybe others will benefit from your own advice for stay-at-home moms.
Make a Play-Date and Make Some Friends
Your baby may not benefit from a play-date at this stage, but you will. Get out and visit with friends and other new moms. You can share tips and stories, laugh and cry, and you’ll feel much better afterward. New moms often feel isolated, so a play-date is a great way to restore or create friendships for the long-run for you and your baby.
Simple Advice for Stay-at-Home Moms: Just Take a Walk
You don’t have to have a scheduled class or program every single day. But to stay sane and avoid going stir-crazy, get outside for a short walk. You and your new baby will get some fresh air and exercise for the day. Even a quick jaunt around the neighborhood will be enough to help you feel better.
Last Resort Tips
If you can’t get out for the day because of illness, weather, or your kids have decided to throw World War III, here are a few last resort options:
- Step Outside: Even if it’s just for a minute or two on your porch or deck, it can help.
- Facetime: Talk with someone who can tell you about something other than your kids.
- Make a Plan: Write down the things you would like to get done outside of the house tomorrow.
Some Final Thoughts
Being a new mom has it’s challenges. But, it’s easier to face them when you don’t feel lonely and isolated. Add the exhaustion of raising a baby to the mix, and it can be impossible to get out of the house some days.
However, there are little things you can do to make things easier. Even if it’s a short walk up and down the block, you’ll feel much happier if you can get out with your baby. And a happy mom means a happy baby, so it’s a win-win for everyone. Ask anyone for advice for stay-at-home moms and they’ll tell you to get out as much as you can.
