Parenting Stress | Moody Melon Magazine

The Power of Watching Your Children Play: A Simple Act That Can Heal Your Mind

Julie Barris | Crisis Counselor | Therapist-in-Training
Apr 7

Watching your children play allows you to experience the pure joy of the present moment, free from the pressures of daily life. It’s a simple, yet powerful reminder that sometimes, the best way to refresh your mind is to simply observe their carefree world.

The Power of Watching Your Children Play: A Simple Act That Can Heal Your Mind

As parents, we often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of daily life—working, planning, and constantly thinking ahead. We juggle responsibilities, manage to-do lists, and worry about what the future holds for ourselves and our children. In the midst of all the busyness, it’s easy to overlook the small moments of calm that can actually be profound for our mental well-being.

One of those moments? Watching your children play.

It might sound counterintuitive at first. After all, we live in a society that celebrates productivity. We often feel guilty about “wasting time” if we're not always on the go. But in reality, taking the time to watch your child play can offer you a chance to reset, recharge, and reconnect with the present moment.

The Calm of Simplicity

Children’s play, while full of imagination and boundless energy, is inherently simple. It’s not about achieving goals or completing tasks—it’s about experiencing joy and engaging with the world around them in a way that feels light and free. When you watch them play, you're invited to observe their unfiltered creativity and unburdened happiness.

It’s easy for adults to get caught up in the complex, often overwhelming nature of life, constantly planning for the future or revisiting the past. Watching your children immerse themselves in the present allows you to temporarily escape from that mental clutter. It reminds you that life doesn’t have to be full of complicated to-do lists to be meaningful—it’s about being here, now.

A Natural Mind Reset

When you're in the midst of your child’s play, you're naturally drawn to their rhythm. Whether it's building a fort, playing make-believe, or simply running around outside, you're invited to relax and observe. Your mind isn’t distracted by deadlines or worries. You’re simply watching them experience the world in a way that is carefree and light. This shift allows you to clear your head and put down the emotional weight you may carry from constant thinking and planning.

There’s something uniquely calming about watching children engage in activities that don’t demand anything from you. You’re not required to take action or solve any problems; you’re just a witness to their joy. This is often a rare opportunity in our adult lives when we don’t have to do anything except exist in the moment.

The Importance of Being Present

One of the most significant benefits of watching your child play is the invitation to be present. In today’s fast-paced world, we’re constantly thinking ahead—about what we need to do next, what we might be missing, or what could go wrong. But when we focus on the simplicity of a child’s game, we learn to tune out distractions and embrace the now.

By grounding yourself in the present, you create space for clarity and mindfulness. The worries about the future and the distractions from the past fade into the background, and you gain the mental space to process your emotions more calmly. It’s a small act, but it can have a profound impact on your mental health.

Quality Time for Both Parent and Child

There’s a special kind of bonding that occurs when you take time to sit with your child and watch them engage in their own world of play. You’re not only giving yourself a break from the mental stress of daily life, but you’re also fostering a deeper connection with your child. In a way, their play becomes a mirror for your own mindfulness. You learn to embrace the beauty of simplicity, of just “being” instead of “doing.”

It’s a moment where both parent and child can share in the peacefulness of the present, without the weight of responsibilities hanging overhead. You’re giving yourself permission to pause, which can be incredibly rejuvenating.

The Hidden Mental Health Benefits

While taking the time to watch your child may seem like a passive activity, it’s actually quite therapeutic. Research in mindfulness and mental health suggests that simple acts of observation—especially those that focus on the present—can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and help individuals feel more balanced emotionally. Watching your child play gives you a mental break, reducing the constant stream of overthinking that leads to burnout.

The act of watching also creates a mental shift from the overwhelming “what’s next?” to the calming “what’s now?” This can provide you with a sense of perspective and relief from the weight of future-oriented anxiety. The simplicity of your child’s enjoyment helps you reconnect with the present and see things from a fresh, clearer perspective.

Final Thoughts

So, the next time you find yourself watching your child play, remember—it’s not time wasted. It’s time well spent. It’s an opportunity to breathe, clear your mind, and simply be. In a world that often encourages us to do more, the simple act of observing and being present with your child can have remarkable benefits for your mental health.

After all, in a time when everything feels so rushed, isn’t it nice to be reminded that the best moments are often the simplest?

Question to Reflect On: How often do you allow yourself to simply be present and take in the joy of the moment—especially through the eyes of your child? How can you use these moments to give your mind the break it deserves?

Solo, Strong, and Supported: How to Thrive as a Working Single Parent Without Family or Friends

Julie Barris | Crisis Counselor | Therapist-in-Training
Nov 26, 2024

Thrive as a working single parent by embracing your resilience and building a routine that balances both your professional and personal life. With the right mindset and time management strategies, you can navigate the challenges of solo parenting while prioritizing your well-being and growth.

Solo, Strong, and Supported: How to Thrive as a Working Single Parent Without Family or Friends

Being a single parent is one of the most challenging roles anyone can take on, especially when you're doing it without the support of family or friends. From juggling work demands to managing household responsibilities, the weight of it all can feel overwhelming. Add to that the emotional challenges of parenting solo, and it’s easy to see how mental health can quickly take a backseat.

But here’s the truth: You don’t need a large support system to thrive. Even in the absence of family and friends, it’s entirely possible to support yourself—mentally, emotionally, and physically—as a working single parent. It requires self-awareness, a bit of creativity, and the commitment to prioritize your well-being.

1. Acknowledge Your Strengths: Embrace Your Resilience

The first step to supporting yourself is recognizing just how resilient you are. Single parents are often superheroes in disguise—managing multiple roles at once, facing challenges head-on, and getting things done day in and day out. But when you’re in the thick of it, it’s easy to forget your own strength.

Take a moment to reflect on your resilience. Every day, you’re doing the impossible—working full-time, raising your child(ren), and running a household. Acknowledge these victories, no matter how small. By celebrating your resilience, you remind yourself that you are capable of navigating this journey, even when things feel tough.

Journaling can be a helpful tool here. At the end of each day, write down one thing you accomplished, no matter how minor it may seem. It could be finishing a report at work, getting dinner on the table, or simply managing a challenging moment with your baby. Recognizing these achievements can help boost your self-esteem and mental health.

2. Build Your Own "Support System": It's About Resourcefulness, Not Perfection

When you don’t have family or close friends to rely on, you may feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. However, support doesn’t always have to come from a traditional network. You can build a resourceful support system that works for you.

Here are a few ways to create your own “village”:

Professional Help: Therapists, counselors, or even life coaches can provide a much-needed outlet for managing stress, addressing mental health challenges, and navigating difficult emotions. While therapy might seem like an extra expense, it's an investment in your mental health and well-being. Many communities offer low-cost or sliding scale options for therapy, and online therapy services can also offer flexibility.
Workplace Support: Many employers offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide free counseling, legal advice, or financial planning. Even if you don't have friends or family nearby, your workplace may have resources to help you manage both your personal and professional life.
Online Communities: The internet offers countless virtual communities where single parents can find support, share advice, or simply vent. Whether it's through social media groups or online forums, connecting with other single parents who understand your struggles can reduce feelings of isolation. Websites like Reddit, Facebook groups, or specialized parenting forums can offer a virtual "village" that provides emotional support, advice, and solidarity.
School or Extracurricular Networks: Sometimes, the community around your child can be a valuable source of support. Teachers, school counselors, or other parents can become informal allies. You might find comfort in knowing you’re not alone in your struggles, and these connections can sometimes offer resources, help with school projects, or even just a sympathetic ear.

3. Prioritize Self-Care: The Importance of "Me-Time"

As a single parent without a support system, the idea of self-care can feel like a distant dream. With everything else on your plate, taking time for yourself may seem impossible. But self-care is essential for your mental health, and it’s something you can build into your routine, even in small ways.

Schedule "Me-Time": Block off time in your calendar, even if it's just 15 minutes a day. This could be a quiet cup of coffee before the baby wakes up, a short walk during lunch, or simply a few minutes of deep breathing or meditation. Scheduling time for yourself, no matter how brief, helps recharge your mental and emotional batteries so you can give more to your baby and your work without burning out.
Physical Activity: Exercise is a proven mood booster, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s a yoga session in your living room, a jog around the block, or dancing in your kitchen, physical movement can release stress, improve your mood, and even help you sleep better at night.
Set Boundaries: It’s easy to fall into the trap of saying yes to everything, especially when you feel like you need to “prove” you can handle it all. But it’s crucial to set boundaries around your time and energy. Don’t be afraid to say no to non-essential commitments, and make sure you’re protecting time for yourself and your well-being.

4. Manage Your Mental Health: Build Emotional Resilience

When you’re parenting solo, it can feel like the emotional weight is all on you. But it’s essential to recognize that you are allowed to feel tired, overwhelmed, and even sad. Managing your mental health is key to supporting yourself.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or even journaling can help manage stress and anxiety. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations that can be done in just a few minutes, giving you a break from the constant mental load.
Stay Connected (Even Virtually): While you might not have family or friends nearby, staying connected to the outside world is important. Video calls or phone check-ins with distant loved ones, even if they’re just casual chats, can help you feel less isolated. Virtual connection can be an effective way to get the social support you need without being physically close.
Focus on Your Inner Strength: Remind yourself daily that you are doing your best. Embrace positive affirmations that reinforce your strength and resilience. Tell yourself, “I am enough,” “I am doing the best I can,” and “I will get through this.” Over time, these affirmations can help shift your mindset, reducing negative self-talk and increasing self-compassion.

5. Lean Into Your Purpose: Your "Why" Can Keep You Going

One of the most powerful tools in managing mental health as a solo parent is connection to purpose. Parenting alone can feel exhausting, but remembering why you’re doing it—whether it’s for your child’s future, your personal growth, or your family’s well-being—can give you the energy to keep going.

Revisit your “why” often. This might mean focusing on your baby’s happiness, building a better future for them, or simply being the best version of yourself. Purpose is a powerful motivator and can help you tap into the inner strength that you need to keep going.

6. Master Time Management: Little Steps for Big Impact

Time management can be a game-changer when you’re juggling work, parenting, and taking care of a baby. The key isn’t in trying to do everything perfectly, but in making incremental improvements that add up over time. Here’s how you can master time management to reduce stress and find more balance:

Plan Your Day the Night Before: Set yourself up for success by planning your day the night before. Take 10 minutes in the evening to write out your top priorities for the following day. This can help you feel more in control and focused when you wake up.
Time Block Your Tasks: Break your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks. For example, designate the first hour of your day for work, the next hour for baby care, and a block in the afternoon for a self-care break. This will help you stay focused and make each task feel more manageable.
Start Small and Build: If time management feels overwhelming, start with small, simple changes. Begin by creating a daily schedule or to-do list, and gradually work on improving your efficiency. As you master small adjustments, you’ll begin to feel more in control, which will reduce anxiety and stress.
Delegate When Possible: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you can. It might not always be family or friends, but maybe a neighbor can watch the baby for a short while, or a colleague can help with a work task. Delegate what you can, so you can focus on what matters most.

7. Taking Care of Your Baby: Creating a Balanced Routine

When you’re a working single parent with no immediate support system, balancing the care of a baby can feel overwhelming. However, creating a simple, flexible routine for both you and your baby can help ease some of that burden.

Set Up a Consistent Routine: Babies thrive on routine. Having consistent sleep, feeding, and play times can make life easier for both of you. Even if you’re working from home, creating structured blocks for your baby’s care can help you manage your time better and allow you to focus on other tasks.
Maximize Baby’s Nap Time: Use your baby’s naps as an opportunity to catch up on work, rest, or self-care. While it’s tempting to catch up on chores, try to reserve a little of that quiet time for yourself—whether it's for relaxation or tackling a priority task.
Baby Gear That Helps You Multitask: Consider investing in baby gear that makes your life easier. A baby carrier or sling can allow you to hold your baby while doing light household tasks or even working. A playpen or baby-safe area can give you short moments of hands-free time to focus on other responsibilities.
Outsource When Possible: If you're juggling work and baby care, don't hesitate to explore options like part-time childcare, playgroups, or finding a trusted local teenager for a few hours a week to give you a break. Sometimes, just a few hours of focused rest or work can make a huge difference in your well-being.

Conclusion: You Are Not Alone in Your Journey

Being a working single parent without the support of family or friends can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in your struggles. By acknowledging your resilience, building your own support system, prioritizing self-care, managing your mental health, leaning into your purpose, and mastering time management, you can create a sustainable way to thrive, even in challenging circumstances.

And remember, taking care of your baby doesn’t have to come at the expense of your mental health. With some thoughtful planning and self-compassion, you can create a balance that works for both of you. You are stronger than you think, and the journey you’re on is a testament to your incredible strength.

FOLLOW US