Being a parent is the toughest and most rewarding job a person will ever undertake. There will be moments when all you will want to do is scream, run into your bedroom and hide under the covers until the kids have fallen asleep. However, those times when your children achieve something, wrap their arms around you or just look up at you with their little faces will make you suddenly realise that it is all worth it.

Whether you’re like me and a single parent, r are parenting with a partner, you’re going to want to unwind a little. You will want to escape from the pressures of parenting and feel like a person again. I know parents that often feel guilty about leaving their children with the babysitter for the night, when they really shouldn’t. As long as you know your child is in safe hands, you should try to make a little quality time for yourself. Not only will it benefit you, but it will benefit your child(ren) too – as mummy or daddy will feel refreshed from the break.

Here’s some helpful tips to help you relax…

Go Out with Friends

You probably spend so much time with your children that you might feel as if you’re reverting back into one. You’ll find yourself finishing off their yoghurts, colouring in their pictures and watching countless cartoons. That’s why it’s important to spend some time in the company of adults.

A little grown-up conversation will most definitely do you some good, as you can share stories, have a laugh and a giggle and just enjoy the company of another person whose shoes you don’t have to tie. Go out for a meal, a night on the town or just visit their home. The separation will give you time to just unwind, and will make you long to return to your children once the evening is over.

Stay in a Hotel

Ring up the kids’ grandparents, book a babysitter or ask a friend to mind the children one night so you can stay in a hotel. Us parents never rest, as we’re constantly worried about whether a child will wake in the night or if they’re staying up past their bedtime – not to mention those shockingly early mornings!

By staying a hotel, you have the chance to have a decent night’s sleep whilst enjoying all the luxury of a hotel room. It’s something I try to do at least every few months, and regularly stay at local hotels with good friends for a little treat

Holiday with Your Kids

If you really don’t want to leave your children at home, take a break with your children. If you’re a single parent, why not take a single parent holiday? There are holidays for people of all ages and budgets, so you can do everything from glamping to a Lapland adventure. You can trust both you and your children will love it, and you’ll meet other single parent families.

Becoming a parent is one of the best things you can ever do in your life – but that doesn’t mean you should stop making time for yourself. Try to squeeze in some “me time” whenever you can. You and your children will be happy you did!