Maintaining Your Sense of Self: Hobbies and Activities with Little Ones
Introduction
The arrival of a little one brings a whirlwind of joy, love, and, let's be honest, a bit of chaos into your life. For many parents, personal hobbies and interests take a backseat as they navigate the new terrain of parenthood. It’s more than a full-time job, after all.
However, maintaining the activities you love isn't just a luxury; it's essential for your mental health and identity. This post explores ways to continue enjoying your hobbies by including your toddler or little one in the fun, transforming your hobbies into opportunities for bonding and learning.
The Importance of Maintaining Hobbies
Hobbies offer a crucial outlet for stress relief, self-expression, and personal satisfaction. They can be a lifeline in the sea of parenting responsibilities, helping to preserve a sense of self beyond your role as a parent. It's common to feel guilty for wanting time for yourself, but it's important to remember that taking care of your needs enables you to be a better parent. Your well-being directly impacts your ability to provide love, patience, and attention to your family.
Adapting Your Hobbies
It’s important to set different expectations for your hobbies when you’re bringing along a little one and including them. It will be different. It won’t be as efficient. But, it should still be fun!
Lower your expectations. It won’t be like it was before, but it can still be rewarding, satisfying, and fun.
Hiking or Running
Hiking or running with a little one can be a fun adventure with the right preparation.
Choose trails that are safe and interesting for little legs or eyes
Consider a baby carrier or toddler harness for longer walks - you’ll need a stroller for running of course that fits the terrain of the trail you’re on
Engage your child's curiosity by pointing out wildlife, collecting leaves, or singing songs as you explore together
Crafting
Crafting hobbies like crochet or sewing can be shared by setting up a safe space where your toddler can play with non-toxic materials or soft scraps of fabric. You can give them their own set of safe tools, like plastic needles or crochet hooks, to mimic your actions in a safe way.
Yes, sometimes they will want to see what you’re up to or help you directly. And sometimes they may mess things up! I have a tendency to want things perfect, so this drove me nuts at first. But, I realized I needed to lower my expectations and just enjoy it instead of focusing so much on the outcome.
Cooking
Cooking offers numerous opportunities to involve your toddler. Simple tasks like washing vegetables, stirring batter, or pouring ingredients allow them to participate actively. This not only keeps them engaged but also teaches valuable life skills and concepts.
They do get messy really quickly—and often spill things, or stick their hands in things. Experiment with how it works best for you and your little one. Sometimes, you may give them a bowl of flour or something and they have the time of their lives while you get things done.
Yes, they will slow down the process. That’s okay. Not everything is about speed and efficiency. (Reminder for myself as much as any reader!)
Incorporating Little Ones into Activities
Involving your toddler in your hobbies requires creativity and patience. Assigning them specific, fun tasks that consume their attention lets you enjoy more of your hobby while they learn and play. For example, give them dough to knead while you bake or a small watering can for gardening. These activities foster their independence and curiosity while you engage in your interests.
Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations
It's vital to manage your expectations when including a toddler in your hobbies. Not every session will be productive, and that's okay. The goal is to enjoy the process and the time spent together, rather than focusing solely on the outcome. Establishing safe boundaries within your activity space ensures that both you and your child can have a fulfilling experience.
Conclusion
Balancing parenthood with personal hobbies is not only possible but extremely rewarding. By involving your little ones in your interests, you're not just maintaining your sense of self; you're also nurturing their growth and curiosity.
Remember, sharing your passions with your children opens up a world of exploration and learning for them, all while keeping your identity and interests alive.
So go ahead, embrace these moments with open arms and an open heart, and watch as your hobbies become a bridge between you and your child's worlds.