Simple Ways to Make Time for Yourself—Even With Baby in Tow

Hey mama, I see you.

You’ve got a diaper bag slung over one shoulder, a baby on your hip, and a mental to-do list that’s longer than your toddler’s bedtime story. You’re doing all the things, feeding, soothing, cleaning, working, loving and somewhere in the chaos, you’re wondering: “When do I get a minute for me?”

Let me tell you something important: You deserve that minute. Actually, you deserve a whole lot more than that. And while it might feel impossible to carve out time for yourself when you’ve got a baby glued to your side, I promise,it can be done. Here are a few simple, sanity-saving ways to sneak in some self-care, even with your little one in tow.

1. Turn Baby Walks Into Mom Moments

That daily stroller walk? It’s not just for baby’s fresh air, it’s your chance to breathe too. Pop in your favorite podcast, audiobook, or playlist. Let your mind wander. You’re moving your body, getting outside, and giving yourself a mental break. That counts as self-care, mama.

I loved going on walks when I had my oldest daughter. Not only was I getting out of the house for my husband to sleep because he worked nights, it was also a great time for me to get some exercise and be out of the house. Plus my daughter loved it as well. Make sure you have some snacks with you in case your kiddo gets hungry.

2. Stretch While They Snooze

Nap time doesn’t always mean hustle time. Sometimes, it means you get to rest too. Even just 10 minutes of gentle stretching, deep breathing, or lying down with your eyes closed can reset your whole vibe. You don’t need a yoga mat or fancy gear,just a quiet corner and a little grace.

3. Baby-Wearing = Hands-Free Me Time

Got a clingy babe? Baby-wearing is a game-changer. Strap them in and do something that fills your cup like dance around the kitchen, water your plants, sip your coffee while it’s still warm (miracle!). You’re still snuggling them, but you’re also showing up for you.

My second kid loved being in a sling. Since I had an older kid we were usually go, go, go and the sling was a life saver. That was 17 years ago and they have so many amazing options available now.

4. Create a “Mom Ritual”

Pick one small thing that’s just for you, maybe it’s your morning coffee, a skincare routine, journaling for five minutes, or lighting a candle at night. Make it sacred. Make it yours. Even if baby’s babbling beside you, that ritual is your anchor.

Mine was reading for a little every day. I love to read so this what helped me keep my sanity. Even if I had to let my kids watch a show for a few minutes, I needed that time for myself.

5. Say Yes to Help (and No to Guilt)

If someone offers to hold the baby while you shower, nap, or stare at a wall in peace, say yes. You’re not failing by accepting help. You’re thriving. And if no one’s offering? Ask. You’re allowed to need support.

This was one thing that I was so bad about and should have taken more advantage of. When my two oldest were young, we lived in student housing. There were so many opportunities I could have had to have other moms watch my kids for even an hour and I didn't take them up on it because I felt guilty. DON'T FEEL GUILTY!! Take the time! Walk for an hour, read for an hour, bake, go on a date with your significant other, do what makes you happy for a little bit of time.

6. Connect With Other Moms

Sometimes, the best self-care is knowing you’re not alone. Text a fellow mom. Join a local stroller group. Vent, laugh, cry, repeat. Community is powerful, and it reminds you that you’re doing an amazing job, even on the messy days.

This was one thing that was easy for me when my kids were little because it was kind of built in to our life at that time. We lived in student housing where we had a playground right outside our apartment. My kids and I spent so much time outside and while they played, I talked with other moms. I missed that interaction after we moved into our house. I was still able to meet up with other moms, just not every day like I had before. Take advantage of any "adult" time you can get!

Final Thought:

Mama, you are not just a caregiver. You are a whole person. And while your baby needs you, you need you too. So take those tiny moments and make them yours. You’re worth it.

Now go pour that coffee, take that walk, or just breathe for a minute. You’ve got this.