Embracing Parenthood: Turning Stressful Moments into Cherished Memories

How Can I Manage My Kids Without Stress as a Working Mom?

Question:

Hi, I’m Gaithiri, a working mother and an infant care teacher in Singapore. I commute daily from Johor, Malaysia, and visit my kids (a 4-year-old boy and a 2-year-old girl) at my in-laws’ house every weekend. I often feel stressed when:

• They wake up very early in the morning, leaving me sleep-deprived.

• When we go out for lunch, they run around, making it hard to manage them.

I love my kids, but handling them without stress feels overwhelming. Could you please guide me on how to manage this better?

Answer:

Hi Gaithiri,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. What you’re experiencing is entirely normal and something many parents go through, especially when juggling work, commute, and parenting. You’re doing a wonderful job already, but I completely understand how overwhelming it can feel at times.

Here’s something to keep in mind: Being a parent comes with its own set of challenges, but it’s also filled with moments that you’ll cherish forever.

When you’re with your kids, they see you not as a teacher or a busy professional but as their mom—their safe haven and biggest cheerleader. While the chaos of their energy can feel exhausting, it’s important to shift our perspective to make the most of these moments.

In life, there are two ways to handle situations:

1. See them as a source of stress.

2. Embrace them as an opportunity to enjoy the process.

For example, I personally enjoy long drives, even in traffic, because I use that time to listen to my favorite songs and reflect. On the other hand, my friend sees driving as nothing but stressful. The difference lies in how we choose to approach the situation.

When your kids wake up early, try to see it as an opportunity to share some quiet, special moments with them before the day begins. When they run around during lunch, it’s their way of expressing excitement and joy — a sign of their healthy curiosity and energy.

But here’s something truly heartwarming to remember: When they grow up, you’ll miss these moments. Their naughtiness, their endless questions, their playful chaos — all these things you find challenging today will one day feel like distant, precious memories. You may even find yourself worrying when they’re too silent or reluctant to share their thoughts with you. Trust me, this phase will pass faster than you imagine.

So, as the saying goes, “Make hay while the sun shines.” Embrace these moments, as they are fleeting.

Here are some practical tips to make things easier:

• Sleep schedules: Try establishing consistent bedtime routines for your kids, which can help them (and you!) get better rest.

• Engage their energy: When you go out, bring along a small activity kit or toys to keep them occupied. Redirecting their energy into something fun can make outings less stressful.

• Shift your focus: Instead of focusing on managing their behavior, enjoy the little moments of their excitement and curiosity.

Remember, you’re doing an amazing job, and the fact that you care so much about your kids’ well-being is a testament to your love and dedication. Parenthood isn’t easy, but these moments are what make it beautiful.

Stay strong and take it one moment at a time. You’ve got this!

Warm regards,

Sathish