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 like taking time for ourselves is selfish, 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 keeping up 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 can still apply today. This study, among others, shows us that parents are emotional anchors for their children, but this can only be successful when parents support themselves first. In essence, fill your cup to be able to fill your family’s!
If you’re looking for somewhere to start putting this into practice, check out “Self-Care Activities” and “5-Minute or Less Action Tips” to support yourself in supporting your children!