Emma Worthington: Housebound With Children
1. Since lockdown, many of us have had to change our lifestyles completely. Has your routine with your children changed?
My son is 6 so he hasn’t been at school which is a big change. My daughter goes to nursery 2 day’s a week but I’m used to being at home with her a lot anyway.
2. Do you feel more pressure as a parent in the current situation? For example, keeping routine, home schooling or explaining why we can’t go outside.
The home schooling was stressful at first because I had to learn how to use google classroom etc. I wanted to get it right for him and was worried he may get behind. We are fine now though. I’m into the swing of it. I think there is a huge pressure won parents right now. We are spinning plates and patting our tummies 24/7.
3. Has the lockdown impacted your mental health? How are you trying to stay positive?
I was more anxious about the thought of it. When it actually happened I was all hands on deck and just cracking on. My husband is taking the children in the garden a lot so I can cook and get a rest. We had a family meeting and everyone is mucking in and helping more.
I have felt my stress levels rise at times for sure. I’m trying to do something nice for myself each day. A nice bath, home facial or walk. It lifts my mood and spirits. I’m generally a positive person and I am conscious of positive thinking. I just keep thinking how lucky I am actually. We have food and a happy home. I think gratitude for the simple things in life really puts things into perspective right now.
4. What would your advice be to parents who may be struggling with their mental health during the lockdown?
Don’t be hard on yourself!
Cut corners! I’m not ironing bedding and half as many clothes . I’m making life as easy as possible. Take a break and do something for you if you can. Download the Calm app. It can help you breathe and stay positive. Go for a walk and get some silence.
5. Are there any ‘pros’ to staying at home. Lots! My kids have never been happier. Hunting in the garden for worms and just having us 24:7
Yes it’s challenging but this slow pace is also a blessing.
6. Are you finding time for self-care? If so, how?
My husband is brilliant so he’s been doing. Bath time with the kids so I can have my own bath, relax out some music on. I don’t think you actually need a long time you just need some time.
7. What is your go-to activity when you have ‘me time’?
Always exercise. I’m missing my PT sessions so much. I am trying to do as much as possible or just head out for a walk with the dog . I also love a long soak in the tub with a glass of wine and some music.
8. How are you keeping your children entertained?
Lots of things
We break down the day.
Some play, some exercise and some learning. Luckily the weather has been on our side and that’s passed hours of fun in the garden. We’ve been doing lots of crafts. Learning Spanish. Just whatever we can find that they may like.
9. If your family life during lockdown was a movie title, what would it be?
The Griswolds on lockdown
10. Finally, what do you wish to remember when looking back at this time? Is there anything you feel you have learnt so far?
I want this time to be a lesson . We have to slow down and appreciate our planet and one another more.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the simple things in life so much more. The flowers, the smell of Spring, our garden.
I think although in crisis we’ve actually enjoyed ourselves. I’m grateful for this time with my children. Eric is at school and Eloise starts school on September ( hopefully) it’s just precious time I wouldn’t have had ordinarily.
I want them to look back and feel secure and like it was fun rather than a scary time.
Stay safe everyone and good luck xxxx
