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Self Care for Caregivers

It is expected that parents and caregivers will struggle to balance work, child care, remote learning for children and self-care while keeping worries — both your children’s and your own — under control. You are not alone. Prioritizing your own well-being will benefit your entire family.

30 SELF-CARE IDEAS FOR PARENTS DURING COVID-19

Productive Ideas

  • Get a head start on spring cleaning — wash baseboards, clean cupboards, wash screens, etc.
  • Move furniture/art/knick knacks around to give your house a new look.
  • Clean out those drawers, take stock of what you have for spring/summer.
  • Declutter and purge! Think not just of toys and clothes, but even the bathroom by tossing old medications and old makeup.
  • Clean the garage and vacuum out vehicles.
  • Do a workout video from YouTube. There are TONS to pick from, and many are kid-friendly too!
  • Shop online for things you may need soon, and try to focus on smaller businesses when possible.
  • Edit/unfollow who you follow on social media…If they bring you down, it’s time to go.
  • Use social media for GOOD. Reach out to 5 people that inspire you and tell them so!
  • Call or FaceTime a friend or family member you haven’t spoken to in a long time.

Creative Ideas

  • Draw, color, knit, sew, etc. When was the last time you got artistic?
  • Create a collage or a vision board if you have old magazines laying around.
  • Use playing cards to create a game. Each card can represent something fun and different to do!
  • Go for a nature walk and identify plants.
  • Start a gratitude journal and list 10 things you are thankful for daily.
  • Discover new music and make a new playlist with your favorites.
  • Write a letter and send it in the mail.
  • Plan an indoor picnic for something fun and different.

Relaxing Ideas

  • Have an at-home spa day. Use a face mask, or put on nail polish.
  • Take a bath. Water is an instant calm.
  • READ. If you aren’t able to go to your library, rent a book from Hoopla with your library card or exchange books with neighbors.
  • Bake. 
  • Play with pets — animals can be so therapeutic.
  • Listen to an inspiring podcast {I do this while I fold laundry}.
  • Try a new game — video game or a game on your phone just for fun.
  • Allow yourself to binge watch a show or have a movie day.
  • Take a nap.
  • Enjoy a distraction-free family movie night.
  • Meditate or pray purposefully. 
  • Watch the sunrise or sunset.