Taking care of ourselves isn’t just a nice bonus in parenting; it’s a must. Think about those airplane instructions: “Put your oxygen mask on first before helping others.” The same rule applies to parenting. It can feel selfish to take time for ourselves, especially when we have little ones depending on us. But the truth is, we can’t pour from an empty cup. A study in Frontiers in Psychology proves it: when parents prioritize their well-being, their kids benefit too.
The research, focused on the stress parents experienced during the COVID-19 lockdown, asked an important question: How does parental stress impact kids? The findings are clear. Parents who made self-care a priority by staying active, resting, eating well, and maintaining social connections were better able to manage stress. As a result, they were more present, patient, and supportive of their kids. This kind of parental balance fosters secure attachment, helping children develop emotional regulation and solid problem-solving skills, setting them up for success in the long run.
We may not be in the depths of a global pandemic anymore, but the lessons we’ve learned still apply. This study, among others, reminds us that parents serve as emotional anchors for their children, but they can only do so effectively when they prioritize their own well-being. In essence, you need to fill your own cup before you can fill your family’s.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start putting this into practice, check out the activities in the Self-Care toolbox to support yourself as you support your children!
