We welcomed our second child nearly a year ago, and let me tell you, it was like trying to relearn how to ride a bike—except this bike is covered in crumbs, toys, and the occasional baby spit-up. The last time I was in the baby phase, my first child was already five years old, so I had to quickly brush up on those parenting skills. Thankfully, the experience has been more like riding a bike through an obstacle course, with the added challenge of fatigue that can only be described as borderline hallucination. But somehow, we’re managing—albeit with a few bumps along the way.
Caring for both a 6-year-old and an infant means you have to be prepared for anything at a moment’s notice. Sure, my eldest can entertain themselves—until it’s time for homework, or bath, or getting ready for school. The baby, on the other hand, is pretty much in need of constant supervision. So, it’s an all-hands-on-deck situation at all times.
Throughout this chaotic experience, I’ve picked up some valuable insights that have helped me not just survive, but actually make it through a day of parenting. Here’s a rundown of the essentials I need—aside from the obvious items like diapers, wipes, and snacks for the kids.
Here’s my personal survival kit for a typical day:
- ALL THE COFFEE IN THE WORLD
- Aspirin
- Xanax? (No shame in that)
- A little something for relaxation, perhaps?
- A flask for emergencies
- A decent nap for the kids
- A decent nap for me
- A moment of peace and quiet
- Just give me some silence, please
- Maybe a muzzle would help
- ALL THE PAPER TOWELS IN THE WORLD
- Five minutes alone to shower
- Five minutes alone to use the restroom
- Five minutes alone to cry
- Five minutes alone, preferably while getting a root canal—seriously, I just need my space!
- ALL THE ASPIRIN IN THE WORLD
- My phone, for the occasional sanity break
- No more laundry—ever!
- A pillow to lie on
- A pillow to scream into
- Just a hint of cooperation from the little ones
- A bit of breathing room would be nice
- Can it be bedtime already for them?
- Can it also be bedtime already for me?
- A LITTLE HELP FROM MY PARTNER, PLEASE
And that’s it! These are the essentials to help you navigate the wild ride of parenting small children. Remember, don’t skimp on the paper towels or the moments of quiet—trust me on this.
For more insights on navigating the complexities of parenting and family life, check out our other blog post here. And if you’re looking for quality home insemination kits, visit Make a Mom for their excellent selection. And for those interested in fertility resources, UCSF’s fertility insurance FAQ is an invaluable guide.
In summary, surviving a day of parenting young children requires more than just basic supplies; it’s about having the right mindset and support. Embrace the chaos, and don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way.