One of the hardest parts of becoming a parent is the shift in schedule. The constantness. As we add to our family, the demands of managing multiple needs at once can be challenging. I know this doesn't help while you are in the depths of those first months of figuring out life (or in the midst of navigating 3 school schedules with sports and work and life..), but I do promise that this time is temporary. ❤
Here are 11 Affirmations specifically for second, third, fourth, however many-time parents & families:
I am a confident and experienced parent, equipped with the knowledge and wisdom gained from previous parenting journeys.
I trust in my ability to navigate the challenges of parenting multiple children, finding a balance that works for our family.
I embrace the unique bond I have with each of my children, knowing that love multiplies and is not divided.
I am adaptable and resourceful, finding creative solutions to meet the diverse needs of my children.
I prioritize self-care and make time for myself, recognizing that taking care of my own needs allows me to be the best parent I can be.
I am patient and understanding with myself as I adjust to the demands of multiple children, knowing that it takes time and practice to find a routine that works.
I seek and accept help when needed, knowing that it's okay to ask for support as I care for multiple children.
I trust my intuition and make decisions that align with the unique needs of each of my children.
I am present and fully engaged with each of my children, cherishing the individual moments and connections we share.
I am proud of myself for expanding our family and providing a nurturing and loving environment for all of my children.
I trust in the growth and learning that come from every parenting experience, knowing I am growing alongside my children.
Remember, being a parent to multiple children brings its own set of joys and challenges. Remember, it's important to be gentle with yourself as you navigate through every family addition and change. Lean on your village if you are blessed to have that support, you ARE allowed to ask for help to refill your cup!. take care of yourself whenever possible to restore your energy and well-being. You can embrace these affirmations to remind yourself of your strength, experience, and love as you navigate the rewarding and chaotic journey of parenting multiple children.
Which affirmation and reminder resonates with you the most?! Let me know in the comments!
So, what can you do to "help yourself" a bit??
*& yes, I know some of these may seem easier said than done - take what you can and apply as able <3
Create a Family Schedule: Develop a routine that includes regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and activities. This helps manage time and ensures everyone knows what to expect, reducing chaos.
Delegate Responsibilities: Involve older children in age-appropriate tasks, like helping with younger siblings, setting the table, or tidying up. This teaches responsibility and lightens your load.
Prioritize One-on-One Time: Spend individual time with each child, even if it's just a few minutes each day. This helps them feel valued and strengthens your bond with each child.
Encourage Sibling Cooperation: Promote teamwork by assigning tasks that require siblings to work together, like building a puzzle or organizing toys. This fosters cooperation and mutual respect.
Streamline Meals: Simplify meal planning by preparing dishes that can be easily adjusted to suit different preferences. For example, create a taco bar where each child can customize their meal.
Embrace Flexibility: Understand that things won’t always go as planned. Stay flexible and be ready to adjust schedules or plans as needed to accommodate the unexpected.
Set Clear Expectations: Communicate rules and expectations clearly and consistently. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone knows their role in the family dynamic.
Create a Calm Down Space: Designate a quiet area in your home where children can go to calm down or have some alone time when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Foster Independence: Encourage your children to do things for themselves, like getting dressed or making simple snacks. This builds their confidence and reduces your workload.
Make Self-Care a Priority: Take time for yourself regularly, whether it's through a hobby, exercise, or simply resting. A well-rested and healthy parent is better equipped to handle the demands of a larger family.
& Some things you should NOT do...
Force Your Kids to Clean Their Plate, No Matter What
Why It’s Bad: Forcing children to eat everything on their plate can lead to unhealthy relationships with food, such as overeating or ignoring hunger cues. It's better to encourage them to listen to their bodies and stop eating when they're full. It is also important to remember that just as many adults, children appetites will vary. This can be due to growth spurts, increased or decreased activity, illness... forcing someone to eat a set amount at every meal is not a practical feeding route.
Use Food as a Reward or Punishment
Why It’s Bad: Associating food with behavior (e.g., "If you behave, you get dessert" or "No dinner if you’re bad") can create unhealthy emotional connections to food, leading to issues like emotional eating or food-related anxiety. Remember, food is a BASIC need and right for a human. You want to foster a healthy and secure relationship between your child and food. This does the exact opposite of that....
Let Them Eat Whatever They Want as Long as They're Not Hungry
Why It’s Bad: Allowing children to eat whatever they want, especially if it’s mostly junk food, can lead to poor nutrition and unhealthy eating habits. It's important to provide balanced, nutritious options and guide them toward making healthier choices. For children who fall in the 50th+ percentile on their growth charts consistently, like my own son, well, I promise it will be okay if they skip a meal here and there. Putting limits on "unhealthy" options is incredibly important! In fact, our own pediatrician had to remind me of that!! (If your doctor or medical team has expressed concerns about your child's growth and/or simply getting in the calories, talk with them more. There are 'healthy' ways to increase calories and nutrients. Your team may also recommend more 'freedom' in this point of advice)
Remember to give yourself as much grace and understanding as you would a friend of yours! New parenthood can be intense. Parenthood with multiple children can be intense. It can all be hard. Take it one day at a time. You got this! I PROMISE!
Simple, Quick, and Family Friendly Meal Ideas for periods of Overwhelm and Stress:
**Before we get into this list, Don't forget - I just shared a Blog Post with over 26 meal ideas! Some are the same and included here, some different. This Blog also shares specific alterations for ages as well as common food allergens included in the meal. You can check that out here!
Alright, so what do we have going this time?! **
Please note, there are generalized ideas and should be tailored to you and your family accordingly.
One-Pan Baked Chicken and Vegetables:
Ingredients: Chicken breasts or thighs, mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, bell peppers), olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder.
Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Slow Cooker Chili:
Ingredients: Ground beef or turkey, canned beans (kidney, black, or pinto), canned tomatoes, chili seasoning mix, chopped onions, bell peppers.
Instructions: Brown the meat in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add beans, tomatoes, chopped veggies, and seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Sheet Pan Fajitas:
Ingredients: Sliced chicken, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, fajita seasoning.
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken and veggies with olive oil and seasoning on a sheet pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Pasta Primavera:
Ingredients: Pasta, mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh), olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese.
Instructions: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Sauté vegetables in olive oil and garlic. Toss pasta with vegetables and top with Parmesan cheese.
Quesadillas:
Ingredients: Tortillas, shredded cheese, cooked chicken or beans, salsa.
Instructions: Place cheese and fillings on a tortilla, top with another tortilla. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa.
Stir-Fry:
Ingredients: Pre-cut stir-fry vegetables, protein of choice (chicken, beef, tofu), stir-fry sauce, rice or noodles.
Instructions: Cook protein in a large pan or wok. Add vegetables and stir-fry sauce, cooking until vegetables are tender. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Ingredients: Sliced turkey, sliced cheese, whole wheat tortillas, optional: lettuce, mustard or mayo.
Instructions: Lay a tortilla flat and place a few slices of turkey and cheese on it. Add lettuce and a bit of mustard or mayo if desired. Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice into pinwheels or serve whole. Serve with a side of applesauce or apple slices + some veggies and dip for a complete meal!
Mini Pita Pizzas:
Ingredients: Mini pita breads, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, toppings (pepperoni, veggies).
Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread sauce on pitas, top with cheese and desired toppings. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits:
Ingredients: Greek yogurt, granola, mixed berries, honey.
Instructions: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in bowls or jars. Perfect for a quick breakfast or light meal..
Veggie and Hummus Wraps
Ingredients: Whole wheat tortillas, hummus, assorted veggies (e.g., cucumber, bell pepper, shredded carrots), optional: spinach or lettuce.
Instructions: Spread a generous layer of hummus on a tortilla. Add your choice of sliced veggies and some spinach or lettuce if desired. Roll up the tortilla and slice it in half or into pinwheels. (*Shredded chicken and turkey are yummy on this wrap too! Don't be afraid to add them in!)
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Ingredients: Sliced bread, cheese (cheddar or American), butter, canned tomato soup.
Instructions: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place cheese between two slices, butter side out. Grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Heat the tomato soup according to the instructions on the can. Serve with the grilled cheese sandwiches.
Breakfast for Dinner (Scrambled Eggs and Toast)
Ingredients: Eggs, milk, salt, pepper, bread, butter, optional: cheese, veggies.
Instructions: Whisk eggs with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Scramble eggs in a skillet over medium heat, adding cheese or veggies if desired. Toast bread and butter it. Serve scrambled eggs with toast.
Not feeling scrambled eggs? Make it an Omelet!
Baked Fish Sticks and/or Chicken Nuggets/Strips and Veggie Sticks
Ingredients: Frozen fish sticks, chicken nuggets/strips, pre-cut veggie sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber), ranch dressing or hummus for dipping.
Instructions: Bake fish sticks and/or chicken nuggets/strips according to package instructions. Arrange veggie sticks on a plate. Serve fish sticks, chicken strips with veggie sticks and a side of ranch dressing or hummus for dipping. Don't forget some tartar sauce!
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients: 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 cup salsa, 1/2 cup water
Instructions: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Pour the salsa and water over the chicken. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot. (*Pro Tip: Use a Hand held mixer to shred that chicken! It will change your life!*). Serve with tortillas and your favorite taco toppings (lettuce, cheese, sour cream, etc.).
Family-Friendly Charcuterie Board This charcuterie board is quick to assemble and offers a variety of flavors and textures that both kids and adults will enjoy. Plus, it requires no cooking and minimal prep work! Keep in mind the choking hazards! If you need adjustments for a younger one, try some of these! (Family-Friendly Charcuterie Board: Adjusted for a 10-Month-Old)
Ingredients:
Proteins: Sliced deli meats (turkey, ham, salami), pepperoni slices, cubed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda), goat cheese, string cheese. ; For Baby: small pieces of well-cooked and shredded chicken or turkey, or deli meats (low Sodium) cut into very small pieces., hard-boiled eggs, sliced / shredded cheeses, goat cheese, soft/mild cheese crumbles
Fruits and Veggies: Apple slices, grapes, berries, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes... the options are endless really! For the Baby: Thinly sliced or grated apple (peeled), halved/quartered grapes, steamed carrot sticks or thinly sliced, peeled cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes (quartered if large)., sliced bell pepper, strawberry, etc.
Crackers and Bread: Whole grain crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips., tortilla chips, cheddar chips, specialty breads (banana bread, sourdough, rye, etc.). For the Baby: Soft bread pieces, strips of toasted bread, small soft crackers (like teething biscuits or baby crackers), thin style puffed rice cakes, small pieces of soft pita bread, graham crackers, whole wheat bread (*take note that breads/crackers do not have large chunks which can be an additional choking risk or honey (see below)! *)
Dips and Spreads: Hummus, ranch dressing, peanut butter, nut butters, jams, whipped cheeses For the Baby: Hummus, mashed avocado (add a little seasoning!), unsweetened applesauce, thinned peanut butter/nut butter, ranch dressing, etc.. *Avoid honey due to the risk of botulism in children under one year old.
Extras: Pretzels, mixed nuts, popcorn, dried fruit (raisins, apricots), pickles, olives. For the Baby: Avoid whole nuts and pretzels due to choking hazards. Offer Puffs, cereals, soft snack bars, small, soft pieces of dried fruit like unsweetened dried apricots (cut into small pieces), and pickles or olives cut into small, manageable pieces if they are low in sodium and appropriately soft.
Instructions:
Arrange Proteins: Start by placing the sliced deli meats and cheese cubes in different sections of a large platter or cutting board. Ensure small, soft pieces are available for the baby.
Add Fruits and Veggies: Fill in the gaps with adult-friendly options and baby-safe versions. Keep baby’s portions separate to avoid confusion.
Include Crackers and Bread: Arrange whole grain crackers, sliced baguette, and pita chips around the board, with soft bread and baby crackers for the little one.
Add Dips and Spreads: Place small bowls of adult-friendly dips and baby-safe options like mashed avocado and unsweetened applesauce.
Finish with Extras: Scatter adult-friendly extras while keeping baby-safe dried fruits and other appropriate items in a separate section.
Well, that was fun! 'Til next time!
❤❤
Thank you for your support and love in this space! It means more to me than you will ever know.
I truly enjoy sharing this information and I hope you find the information provided valuable. If you do find this information helpful, I kindly ask that you consider sharing - via social media, word of mouth, email, etc. I would love to help support as many out there as I can! <3
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Jessica Enderle, R.D., L.D.
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