In case you're wondering what you can do with all that "free" time on your hands now that the kids have gone back to school, Mighty Mommy can help. Here are six ways you can keep yourself entertained after the school bus drives off with your kids onboard.
Tip #4: Go Back to Bed
Some say sleep is so overrated but when you’re a crazy, busy parent, sleep shouldn't be something you skimp on, though it often is. Take advantage of these first few weeks of school and crawl back into bed with your favorite book, or perhaps the TV remote and just relax and chill out. After the summer craziness that your entire family has just endured, let your cozy bed offer a bit of respite.
Tip #5: Hit the Mall
Don’t discount a relaxing trip to your local mall (or grocery store) once the kiddies are back to school.
You can walk down every single aisle. No tantrums, no begging. You can even try on clothes. Even if you just wander through the different stores and do a lot of window shopping, you will be opening yourself up to some new ideas, fashion, and even recipes if you end up in the grocery store. There is so much to take in and enjoy in a mall, if you have the time on your hands to digest and enjoy it. With the kids in school, this is the perfect time to hit the mall and escape.
Tip #6: Clean the House
You’re kidding, right? After spending 10 intense weeks with your kids home from school you think cleaning the house is the way to unwind? Yes! Puttering around the house, alone, with perhaps your favorite musical CD blasting in the background can be a wonderful way to spend some quality time with yourself.
This is an opportunity to clean, purge, and get organized for the new school year ahead. One of my favorite rituals when my kids go back to school is going through my closet and drawers and getting my own wardrobe organized for the year. As a treat to myself for having just shown my kids a great summer, I always set aside some money to get splurge on a few new pieces and accessories for myself.
How do you spend some “alone” time once the kids head back to school? Share your thoughts in the comment section at quickanddirtytips.com/mighty-mommy or post your ideas on the Mighty Mommy Facebook page. You can also connect with me on Twitter @MightyMommy or email me at mommy@quickanddirtytips.com. Visit my family-friendly boards at Pinterest.com/MightyMommyQDT.
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About the Author
Cheryl L. Butler was the host of the Mighty Mommy podcast for nine years from 2012 to 2021. She is the mother of eight children. Her experiences with infertility, adoption, seven pregnancies, and raising children with developmental delays have helped her become a resource on the joys and challenges of parenting. You can reach her by email.
