Take a break from the baby routine

As a newborn, your baby demands your full attention, and it is probably hard for you to imagine stepping away from your favorite person's side. But at some point, you might long to meet up with old friends in peace again, without conversations revolving solely around topics like daycare spots and parenting questions. Then it's time to give yourself a break – just for you, without your baby. In this article, you'll learn why this is so important and how you can create small moments of freedom in your everyday life with your baby.

Why is baby-free time so important?

Parenthood means a big change: suddenly, it's no longer your own needs that are in focus, but those of your baby. Your daily routine is shaped by many new responsibilities, and some things that were once a matter of course in your life now seem secondary. Between , , and baby swimming, spontaneous meetings with friends or maintaining your hobbies become a challenge. As wonderful as the new role of mom or dad is: it does not mean that you have to put all your personal needs aside with the birth of your baby. Some parents feel guilty at the thought of leaving their baby alone. However, taking time for yourself in between does not make you a bad mother or father. On the contrary, the time without your baby, when you only need to care for yourself, is important to gain distance from the hectic daily routine and to recharge. Regular breaks help remind you that you are not only a parent but also a person with your own interests and needs. Whether you pursue your favorite hobby, meet up with a good friend in peace : afterwards, it will be easier for you to face the daily challenges of baby life. Your baby also benefits when you are fit and relaxed again.

How do I create time-outs for myself?

Parenting is a round-the-clock job that constantly challenges you. Still scheduling regular baby-free times sometimes seems like an impossible feat. Listen to yourself and try to find out when and in what form time for yourself feels especially good. Because even if it's not always easy and requires some organizational effort, there are ways to carve out small breaks in your daily routine. The following tips can help you with that:

• Take your time to breathe.

  If you notice that you urgently need a moment for yourself, it can help to leave the room for five minutes and go inward. Focusing on conscious inhaling and exhaling helps you to calm down, and you can face the situation again feeling renewed.

• Teilen Sie die Betreuungszeit für Kinder mit Ihrem Partner.

  Whether you take a relaxing bath in the evening while both of you are at home or each of you has a completely child-free evening once a week: intentionally plan together with your partner when one of you dedicates full attention to your baby while the other can withdraw. This way, you can show each other that you are a strong team and can rely on each other.

• Make the most of the time with your partner

  Even if you and your partner are now parents: You are still a couple, and that should not be neglected. Whether it's the daily shared coffee break or a regular evening just for the two of you: establish fixed rituals as breaks from everyday life that you can look forward to. Use the time together intentionally for conversations that are not about your baby, but about other things that move you.

• Ignore the household on the left

  Even if it's difficult: try to ignore the piles of laundry that are still piling up in the corner during your baby-free time. After all, it's not about using your time as efficiently as possible, but about dedicating it solely to yourself. You deserve it.

• Get help

  The has asked for the third time when she will see her grandson next? Great, then she will surely enjoy a whole afternoon with your little explorer just as much as you enjoy the unexpected break. After all, you know your baby is in the best hands and can truly let your mind wander. But visiting a good friend can also be an opportunity for a mini-break: maybe she feels like taking your baby for a walk around the block, while you enjoy a relaxing shower in peace.

When can I start taking breaks?

In the first few months, your baby’s need for closeness is particularly strong. You will probably also find it difficult at first to be separated from them. Therefore, in the early days, if possible, only trusted close persons should take over the care. If you are breastfeeding, this can also be a reason why longer breaks are difficult to plan at the beginning. During this time, a quiet bath or sleeping in on the weekend while your partner cares for your baby can be a welcome break. Generally: you can take longer baby-free time when you and your little explorer both feel ready. The right time is different for each parent, and you are not accountable to anyone. Additionally, for the time you spend apart: knowing that your little explorer is in good and reliable hands makes it easier for you to relax and truly enjoy your free time. Your child should already know the caregiver and trust them. You can learn more about the first separation from your little explorer in our article “ “. And if it doesn’t work on the first try: just try again a little later, then everything can look very different.

Whatever you do during your breaks – the main thing is that you do something good for yourself. One thing you can definitely look forward to: the wonderful feeling of holding your little explorer back in your arms and the joy of reunion on both sides.