If you’re a single parent reading this, keep reading. Don’t feel selfish for reading something with suggestions for you. In fact, think about who you could send this link to–whoever’s been asking what you need, or who you genuinely know wants to help you, but doesn’t know what to offer. When I became a single parent with no notice, I had no idea what to tell people when they asked what they could do for me. I still struggle with that, even though I feel like I need help with everything.
Even eight months into my own widowhood journey, I still need a lot of help. But finally, I’m finding ways to help myself live smarter, not harder. Here are some of my favorite things that I think every single parent needs in order to take care of themselves. If you’re a single parent, add your favorites in the comments!
Adult Squeezy Pouches
I don’t know about you, but I need shortcuts. Those squeezable baby food pouches are a lifesaver, and I think all parents probably feel the same! Some of the flavor combos are not made for adult palates (um, who’s happily squeezing the kale, peach, and green bean pouch?), but some of them are pretty good (sign me up for the dragonfruit, coconut, and oat pouch!). I recently discovered a new favorite for myself, though: Grown up squeezy pouches! I try hard to eat healthy food that makes me feel my best, but it’s a struggle to get all my fruits and veggies in, plus enough fiber, plus enough protein, plus do everything else I’m supposed to do by myself for me and the baby all day, every day.
Sometimes I just don’t have the brain power to make any choices, much less a healthy choice. And often, I simply don’t have the time or energy to even make a smoothie. I’m so glad I found these smoothie pouches. They’re not a complete meal, but they certainly help me bridge the gap, and allow me to get a protein and fiber boost. I’ll slurp one down before a workout or as an addition to a meal (to make sure I get that fruit serving).
Keep reading: The Top 7 Reasons Single Parents Should Travel with Their Kids
Oats Overnight
Speaking of shortcuts to get enough protein, this is a game changer. The meal I struggle with the most is breakfast. The things I like seem to take longer and have more steps to make them than I remember pre-baby. So, I’ve let myself become addicted to Oats Overnight. They have 15-20 grams of protein as-is, and when you add milk, that’s even more protein. Yes, you have to let them sit for at least four hours, but it’s easy to add the milk before bed, and when you wake up, you have the easiest breakfast you could possibly have. Add in a scoop of peanut butter and a banana, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal!
More here: How to Treat Yourself As a Single Parent on Travel
A Luxury Set of PJs
Single parents know this one fact better than most: Your sleep is precious. Your downtime is practically nonexistent, so the little time you have to relax (haha), sit with your coffee (please comment below with how you find time for that), or sleep while your baby sleeps is basically sacred. I asked for a set of these Faceplant Dreams pajamas for Christmas last year, and I splurged on another set for myself recently. I have zero buyer’s remorse! I sleep better in their truly comfortable fabric, and I honestly feel a confidence boost when I wear them around the house. As a single parent, you get a pass to enjoy things that make you feel good, even if they seem a little extravagant.
Read next: What to Do When There’s No One to Watch Your Baby on Travel
A Subscription to Audible
I don’t know about you, but I miss reading. My husband and I used to read together every night, and as often as possible. Then we had a baby. And then he passed away, and I became a single parent with an infant. Reading to my daughter doesn’t have quite the same effect for me as reading what I want to read. But you know what helps me with that? Audiobooks. I love them so much. I listen with my earbuds in while I try to get Iris to sleep, while I’m nursing, when I go on walks with Iris, or when I’m in the car. If you’re looking for a gift for that keeps on giving to a single parent you love, an Audible subscription will bring them joy!
Keep reading: How to Practice Self Care on Travel
Help at Home
Let’s be completely honest here: The ultimate gift for any single parent is help at home. Some popular helping hands include: Food they didn’t have to cook, bathrooms they didn’t have to clean, vacuuming they didn’t have to do, kitchens they didn’t have to clean, laundry they didn’t have to fold, groceries they didn’t have to shop for, babysitting so the single parent can go for a run, help organizing, company while de-cluttering, the list could go on and on.
When it’s all down to you, it’s a lot. Single parents are dealing with decision fatigue, information overload, and constant overwhelm. If you’re not sure what to offer, just pick one thing from the aforementioned list, and ask if that’s something they would want. They’ll love you for it.
Read next: The Most Important Lessons Travel has Taught Me
Want more gift ideas? Check out my Gift Guide Page!
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