Guest Blogger, Dixie Somers
Having a big family can bring many joys and blessings, but it also comes with its own unique challenges. With more mouths to feed, schedules to coordinate, and emotions to navigate, it can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task just trying to keep everything running smoothly. But fear not! There are ways to make your life easier as a parent of a large family. Here are seven tips to help you navigate and thrive in the chaos.
Embrace a Routine
One of the best ways to keep your household running like a well-oiled machine is to establish a routine. This can include regular meal times, designated chore days, and set bedtimes for the kids. Having these routines in place can help create a sense of structure and predictability for both you and your children.
Delegate Tasks
Trying to do everything yourself as a parent of a big family is just not feasible. Instead, delegate tasks to other family members based on their age and abilities. This not only helps lighten your workload, but it also teaches responsibility and teamwork to your children.
Children of all ages can help with various tasks around the house. Younger children can assist with simple chores such as putting away toys, setting the table, and helping fold laundry. Older children can take on more responsibility by helping with meal prep, doing dishes, and even taking care of younger siblings for short periods of time. By delegating tasks to your children, you not only get some extra help, but you also teach them valuable life skills.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can save you from many potential headaches. This can include meal planning for the week, organizing schedules and appointments in advance, and having a backup plan for emergencies. By being proactive, you can avoid last-minute scrambles and reduce stress.
In addition to planning ahead for daily tasks and schedules, it’s also important to plan for the overall maintenance and functioning of your household. This can include setting aside time each week for deep cleaning and organizing, investing in tougher home material, such as a Luxury vinyl plank install, and keeping track of any upcoming birthdays or special events. By having a plan in place, you can better manage your time and ensure that everyone’s needs are taken care of.
Stay Connected with Your Partner
With so much going on, it can be easy to lose sight of your relationship with your partner. But maintaining a strong connection is crucial in navigating the challenges of a big family. Make time for date nights, communicate openly and honestly, and support each other in all aspects of parenting.
Prioritize Self-Care
As a parent, it can be easy to put your own needs on the back burner. But taking care of yourself is essential in order to take care of others. Make time for activities that bring you joy and recharge your batteries, whether it’s exercising, reading a book, or spending time with friends.
It’s important for parents to prioritize self-care not just individually, but also together as a couple. This can include going on joint outings, taking up a new hobby together, or simply having regular check-ins and discussions about how each parent is feeling. By supporting each other in self-care practices, parents can strengthen their relationship and better handle the responsibilities of raising a big family together.
Embrace Imperfection
With a big family, it’s important to let go of the idea of perfection. There will be messy rooms, missed appointments, and chaotic moments—and that’s okay! Embrace the chaos and imperfections, and focus on creating a loving and supportive home environment instead.
In a big family, things may not always go as planned. It’s important to learn how to go with the flow and adapt to unexpected changes or challenges that may arise. This can include being flexible with schedules, finding creative solutions to problems, and maintaining a positive attitude even in the midst of chaos. By learning to go with the flow, you can reduce stress and create a more relaxed and harmonious atmosphere in your household. Remember that perfection is not the goal, but rather fostering love, laughter, and resilience within your big family.
Reach Out for Support
Don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it. Whether it’s asking a friend for help or joining a support group for parents of large families, having a network of people who understand your challenges can make all the difference in feeling less overwhelmed and more supported.
While being independent is important, it’s also crucial to remember that you are not alone in raising a big family. It’s okay to ask for help and support from others, whether it’s your partner, extended family members, or friends. Building a strong support system can provide valuable emotional and practical support, and remind you that it takes a village to raise a child. Additionally, involving your children in decision-making and problem-solving can also foster a sense of collaboration and teamwork within the family.
Having a big family may come with its own unique set of challenges, but it can also bring immense joy and fulfillment. By implementing these tips and strategies, you can make your life as a parent of a large family easier and more enjoyable. Embrace the chaos, prioritize self-care, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. You got this!
About the Author:
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.
