ABC's and 123's:

At Action for Children, we understand that being a mom is one of the most rewarding and demanding roles you’ll ever take on. Motherhood is a journey filled with love, sacrifice, and resilience. Mothers are often the heart of their families, juggling emotional, mental, and physical responsibilities that can feel never-ending. It’s easy to put your needs last when everyone depends on you including your children, partner, and other family members. 
 
But what if we told you that prioritizing yourself is one of the best things you can do for your children? 
 
Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. When you are emotionally balanced and well cared for, you can parent with intention, patience, and confidence. This blog will share practical self-care strategies (shared by Mothers Matter Coordinator, Arla Lyles) that align with our Mothers Matter mission and help foster empowerment, emotional wellness, and intentional parenting. 
 
Wherever you are on your motherhood journey, just remember that you matter too. 

Pause & Breathe – Responding, Not Reacting 

Before responding to your child, try taking five deep, full breaths. This simple act of mindfulness helps you pause and reset, allowing for better emotional regulation and helping to reduce stress in high-pressure moments. Many of the behaviors we see in our children are developmentally normal. Taking them personally only adds tension. When we respond rather than react, we create more peace for ourselves, our children, and other family members. 

Fill Your Cup – Daily Self-Care Habits

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Start establishing small, consistent habits that help you feel replenished and grounded. These habits don’t need to be elaborate; they just need to serve you. 
 
Here are a few easy ways to practice self-care daily: 
– Stay hydrated by drinking water. 
– Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. 
– Get in some physical activity, whether it’s a walk outside or dancing to your favorite song. 
– Journal your thoughts and feelings. 
– Take a nap or schedule a quiet timeout for yourself. 
– Find reasons to laugh and spark positive emotions. 
– Take the long way home and enjoy the scenery. 
 
These little moments matter. They don’t require a lot of time or money, just intention. Building these habits creates space for compassion toward yourself and those you care for.

Heal to Parent – Seek Support 

Parenting can sometimes bring up unresolved feelings from our own childhood. It’s important to acknowledge that many people carry some form of trauma and our children can unintentionally trigger those wounds. Speaking with a counselor or therapist can help you process emotions, find clarity, and begin to heal. This is a key part of emotional wellness. 
 
If professional support isn’t accessible right now, confide in someone you trust. Someone who listens without judgment and has your best interests at heart. Healing is a journey, and support from a caring friend or family member can help lighten the load. 
 
Empowerment often starts with choosing to face your own story with courage.

Be Realistic – Adjusting Expectations

Let go of the idea that you have to do it all. High expectations of yourself, your children, and others can lead to constant disappointment and burnout. If your to-do list feels overwhelming, shorten it. Set achievable goals that align with your current reality. 
 
Small accomplishments add up and build the confidence you need to keep going. Being realistic doesn’t mean giving up; it means giving yourself the grace to grow without unnecessary pressure. In the journey of parenthood, progress is more important than perfection.

Create Calm – House Rules with Love

Establishing clear house rules helps create structure and predictability for children. When expectations are known and consistent, children feel safe. Enforce rules calmly and with consequences that are non-violent and fair. Avoid reacting emotionally; instead, use misbehavior as a chance to teach and guide. 
 
This approach not only strengthens trust but also encourages children to develop their own emotional regulation skills. A calm, connected home environment benefits the entire family and models the kind of intentional parenting that sets the tone for lifelong learning and love.

Self Care Matters

Self-care is not an indulgence — it’s a form of strength. When you care for yourself, you create the space to be the kind of parent you want to be. You show your children what it looks like to love themselves, to rest, to ask for help, and to grow. 
 
At Action for Children, we believe in taking time to honor your role, your wellness, and your worth. When you’re compassionate towards yourself, it fuels compassion for others.  

 
You are not alone – Action for Children is here to walk alongside you. For more resources and support, visit actionforchildren.org or afclearning.org. 

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Author: Arla Lyles, Mothers Matter Program Coordinator, Action for Children 

Co-Author: Tyra James, Program Marketing Coordinator, Action for Children 

About Action for Children: Action for Children is the local child care resource and referral agency for central Ohio, and is committed to assuring quality early learning experiences for all children. Our services focus on transforming the lives of children by supporting the everyday heroes who most influence our children’s early growth; care givers, educators, parents, and guardians. Learn More.