S2E4 Find Time for Yourself When Your Child Needs Constant Attention | NeurOrdinary Podcast

Hey there, it's Karen! In this episode of the NeurOrdinary podcast, I dove into one of the trickiest questions we autism parents face: “How do I find time for myself when my child needs constant attention?” Trust me, you're not alone if you've struggled with this. I started by addressing the emotional hurdles we often face—guilt, frustration, and that constant feeling of being stretched too thin. I shared a personal story about how even my attempts to steal ten minutes for a hot tea and a Harry Styles video often get derailed by sensory overloads or school help demands.  The key takeaway here? It's okay to feel those emotions, but they shouldn't stop you from seeking self-care. Then, I got practical. I talked about carving out micro-moments for self-care—think 5 minutes while waiting for breakfast to cook or keeping a gratitude journal on the counter. I also suggested tools and tech that can help, like visual schedules or even the occasional iPad day. One of my favorite tips? Time blocking in miniature. Instead of aiming for an hour, start with five-minute chunks. And don’t shy away from asking for help, whether it's a partner taking over bedtime or a friend giving you a short break. Lastly, I emphasized the importance of community. Emotional support from fellow parents can be a game-changer. Whether you join my Substack community or a free Facebook group, connecting with others who "get it" can make a world of difference. * Please note: names used in this podcast may have been changed to protect the identity of my coaching clients and their children. Don't see your preferred podcast program listed? Contact me here to suggest where you'd like to listen to NeurOrdinary.  Resources Mentioned In This Episode Join the Self-Care Support Squad Substack! For just $7/month get access to monthly group coaching calls, replays of The Ultimate Autism Parents Self-Care Workshop, and more! Become part of the Self-Care Support Squad on Facebook.  Check out free guided meditations to help you build resilience and practice mindful awareness here. Revitalize and Recharge: Making Self-Care a Priority as an Autism Parent Energy on Demand: 7 Quick Fixes for Exhausted Autism Parents