Parent Self-Care in the School Year.
3. Simplify Where You Can • Use grocery delivery or pick-up services to save time • Batch errands so you’re not crisscrossing the city every day • Keep easy dinner backups on hand for busy nights 4. Move Your Body Exercise isn’t just about fitness - it’s a proven stress reliever. If you can’t make a full class or gym session, fit in quick walks during your day. Pushing the stroller to school or walking part of the commute can double as self-care time. 5. Protect Your Sleep It’s tempting to stay up late catching up on chores or TV, but consistent sleep is the foundation of mental and physical health. Aim for a bedtime that gives you at least 7 hours of rest. 6. Say No (Sometimes) You don’t have to sign up for every committee, event, or playdate. Choose what truly matters to your family and politely decline the rest. 7. Find Your Support System Whether it’s a co-parent, grandparent, friend, or neighbor, identify people you can call on for help. Swapping school pick-ups or sharing after-school duties can lighten your load. Bottom line: The school year can be intense, but small, consistent acts of self-care can help you stay energized and avoid burnout. A balanced, well-rested parent is better equipped to handle the family schedule - and enjoy the moments in between.
Avoiding burnout while managing the family calendar.
The school year can feel like a marathon for parents - juggling work schedules, school drop-offs, homework help, after-school activities, and the endless logistics of family life in NYC. It’s easy to get so focused on keeping everyone else on track that your own needs slide to the bottom of the list. But caring for yourself isn’t selfish - it’s essential for staying healthy, patient, and present for your family. Here’s how to keep burnout at bay while managing a busy calendar. 1. Schedule Your Own Time First Before filling the family calendar with everyone else’s commitments, block out small pockets for yourself - even 15 minutes counts. Add them to your calendar like any other appointment. This could be a short walk, coffee with a friend, or a quick workout. 2. Build in Transition Time Back-to-back activities can drain you fast. Leave small gaps between school pick-ups, meetings, and errands to breathe, grab a snack, or simply reset. Even a few minutes of downtime can make a big difference.
12 | New York Loves Kids | Family Fall Guide 2025
New York Loves Kids | Family Fall Guide 2025 | 13
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