How Do You Get in a 5 Minute Break As a Parent?

In general, it can be tough to get a 5 minute break as a parent. As a high-needs parent, I know that it can become that much more difficult (and complicated) in getting a break.

When children are young and in the consistent throws of sensory meltdowns (not toddler tantrums), finding a family member or adult willing or able to take on the kids can be near impossible.

And let’s not even touch on the fact that it can be heartbreaking to leave your child with someone who doesn’t understand or appreciate your kiddo’s sensory needs.

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How Do You Get in a 5 Minute Break As a Parent? | The Sensory Spectrum

The most popular place to get a 5 minute break according to the community? The bathroom! A close second was the shower.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t a viable option in my house. It seemed that I couldn’t even get five minutes in the shower without my son needing something or just feeling the irresistible urge to come talk to me… even when my husband was covering for me.

It often felt like I just couldn’t catch my breath. And people telling me to just take some time for myself… well, it felt defeating and made me feel even more isolated because they just didn’t get it!

But as a sensory parent, I’m telling you you’re not alone and many of us get the fact that is can seem darn near impossible to even carve out five minutes for ourselves.

How Do You get in a 5 Minute Break For Yourself?

Here’s what many of you had to say to this question….

“Thankfully, I have a wonderful husband who understands that occasionally, ‘Mommy needs a time out.'”  – Megan J.

“It used to be the bathroom. Now I get out art supplies! ” – Kim U.

“What’s a 5 minute break?? Do you know where I could buy one?” – Nicole D.

“I get my dad or husband to watch the kids while I go to the grocery store. That’s my ‘spa’ getaway!” – Christine J.

“Shower once they are down for the night. My mommy time out. During the day there’s no breaks.” – Kayleigh C.

“Lock bathroom door and bring son’s I pad! hahahah ” – Terri Sue S.

“At age six, my son has finally discovered video games. Thought it was terrible — until I realized I could finally pee in peace! ” – Jennifer H.

“I get in bathtub while my four year old is on my bed watching his favorite show. I leave the connecting door
open. ” – Fannie D.

“What’s a 5 minute break?? Do you know where I could buy one?” – Nicole D.

“A video equals a nap for me.” – Gina D.

“So far in almost 2 years….I HAVEN’T.”  - Deborah P.

“We’ve implemented timers for almost all transitions to include mommy time. I started with 10 minutes little-buddy time and 5 minutes mommy time. He’s gotten used to it, and our time has increased a bit. ” – Nancy M.

“I take my 4 year old (SPD) and 20 month old twins for a 20 minute drive when I need to….. that said sometimes this backfires as the ‘seatbelt is not right/not tight enough.'” – Peta K.

Every day or so, we ask our followers on our Facebook page for tips, tricks and ideas for managing sensory issues (stemming from Sensory Processing Disorder, Autism and even ADHD) and what it’s like being a sensory parent. Read what other people have to say and join in on the discussion!

ADD YOUR TWO CENTS: How Do You get in a 5 Minute Break For Yourself?