Parents of children with special needs are notorious for not setting aside any time to themselves. They work day and night to care for their children and rarely take even fifteen minutes to relax. During the holidays, it only gets worse. There is so much more to do and so many projects to take care of this time of year that by the time the holidays are over, parents haven’t gotten to really enjoy any of the festivities. Make this year different.
Give yourself the gift of day off. Get a friend, relative or respite care provider to watch your child while you take a day for you. Don’t shop for the kids. Don’t clean the house. Don’t go to the grocery store. Instead, get yourself an early Christmas present of a day dedicated to relaxation. You can do anything, from spending the day in your pajamas reading, watching television, eating, and napping to going to the spa for a haircut, massage, pedicure, manicure or all of the above.
Plan a date night with your spouse or best friend. Get away from the chaos of home life and enjoy a night out with your favorite person. You can go to a movie, get a bite to eat, or take a tour of the neighborhood Christmas lights. No matter what you do, get out and enjoy a moment together.
Shop for yourself. Get yourself something you have been dreaming of for a long time. We put our children first and rarely buy anything for ourselves, especially with all the medical bills to take care of. Make an exception and get yourself that one great gift this season.
No matter how much money or time you have, there are ways to make sure to take time for yourself. During the craziness of the holidays, find a way to celebrate the great parent that you are and to remember all that you have to be thankful for.