As a new parent navigating the world of sleepless nights, I’ve come across the age-old advice: “sleep when the baby sleeps.” It’s a mantra that has been dissected by countless online commentators, and then there’s the equally popular suggestion to “let the housework slide.” This notion, akin to the saying “a messy home is a happy home,” implies that ignoring the dishes in the sink will free us up for floor play with our giggling toddlers or for enjoying the sounds of life outside, like the garbage truck’s cheerful clatter. The theory goes that with less clutter on our minds, we can focus on what truly matters—our kids and the fleeting moments we share with them.
For me, however, this advice is about as useful as a chocolate teapot.
Where Does the “Sliding” Happen?
First off, where exactly is this “sliding” supposed to happen? If you’re somewhat organized, there’s little room for slacking. Those dirty dishes won’t magically clean themselves, and putting off laundry just means I’ll be knee-deep in a mountain of clothes later. Sure, I could wear the laundry straight from the pile, but that still involves washing and drying, not to mention the time wasted searching for that one elusive sock.
Even if procrastination could lighten my load, it would likely create a visual chaos that adds to my stress. This phenomenon is akin to the broken windows theory; a sink overflowing with dishes and a mountain of laundry can create an environment that encourages further messiness. The more cluttered the space, the more inclined we are to toss aside our own belongings.
To put it simply, housework that’s allowed to “slide” just ends up in a heap waiting for someone (that’s me) to deal with it later. And “later” often means after the kids are tucked in, when I could be enjoying a good book or catching up on my favorite show.
The Buzzkill of Unfinished Chores
Moreover, the sight of unfinished chores can be a buzzkill for some of us. Personally, I’ve never been one for lengthy breaks; I find it hard to relax when there’s work left undone. I could ignore the kitchen mess and spend a few moments singing “Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” but I’d be too distracted by the crumpled paper towels and forgotten fruit scraps begging for attention. Taking just a couple of minutes to tidy up before diving into play allows me to fully enjoy the moment—singing merrily without distractions.
Finding Control Amidst Chaos
I’ve also started to question the reasoning behind the advice. When we envision a parent tidying up while their children romp about, it’s easy to assume they’re missing out on precious moments. Yet the opposite can be true. When the demands of my three kids—like their endless need for food, conversation, movement, and cuddles—feel overwhelming, I turn to manageable tasks. Sorting socks or organizing toys gives me a sense of control amidst the chaos. Once I regain my composure, I can genuinely enjoy the time spent with them.
Letting housework slide would simply mean pushing my responsibilities to a later date, adding stress to my life and sacrificing my little moments of zen. So, I’ll keep up with cleaning, and let this piece of advice slide instead.
Further Reading
For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out this resource. And if you’re looking for ways to enhance your fertility journey, visit Make a Mom, a trusted authority on the subject. Additionally, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provides excellent information on treating infertility.
In Summary
Balancing housework and parenting can be a challenge, especially with the pressures of keeping a clean home while enjoying precious moments with children. Ignoring household chores can lead to stress and distraction, making it harder to focus on what matters most—our families.