How to Make Time for Yourself When Your Kids Need You 24/7

After having my third baby, taking time for myself seemed damn near impossible. Between the diapers, the snacks, the never-ending laundry, and trying to keep my sanity, there wasn’t much room left for “me.”

But here’s the thing: when I finally figured out a routine that let me fill my own cup, everything else got easier. I’m a better mom, my house runs smoother, and I actually feel like me again.

Here’s what works for me right now:

1. Mornings Before the Kids Wake Up

I don’t wake up hours earlier (I like my sleep too much). I just get up a little before the kids to do three non-negotiables:

  • Hair
  • Skincare
  • Get dressed

That’s it. If I have time for anything extra, great — but even just those three things make me feel human and ready for the day.

2. Nap Time: My 10/20/30 Routine

Nap time used to be my “catch up on chores” window, but I always ended up drained. Now I follow a simple system that keeps me balanced:

  • 10 minutes → Quick pickup or cleaning (whatever makes the biggest difference fast).
  • 20 minutes → Self-care. This could be a workout, shower, nap, or even scrolling my phone guilt-free. If it brings me joy, it counts.
  • 30 minutes → Whatever else needs attention. For me, this has been packing boxes for our upcoming move, but it could just as easily be folding laundry, decluttering a closet, or doing some meal prep.

This way, I get something done for the house, something done for me, and something done for the bigger picture.

3. Screen Time Saves Me Sometimes

Some days, I’m just tapped out. The kids are wild, or I’m running on fumes. That’s when I lean on screen time — guilt-free. It gives me a break and helps me reset so I can show up better afterward.

The Bottom Line

Making time for yourself as a mom doesn’t have to look like a spa day or a weekend away. It’s about finding little rhythms that keep you grounded. For me, that’s waking up a bit earlier, sticking to my 10/20/30 nap time system, and not being afraid to use screen time when I need it.

When I take care of myself, I take better care of my family — and that’s the whole point.

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