5 parenting tips if you are an introvert

Parenting is not an easy job. And it is a full-time job. 

Actually…. full time job does not cover it. You need to be available around the clock and you are responsible for another human being. 

Of course, it comes with a lot of satisfaction and love so, most of the days, which makes things easier. 

First of all, in the first years, for mothers especially, there is no personal space. 

It might be a challenge for you to find some alone time, to get your rest or to have a bit of silence in the house. 

If, before becoming a parent, you had your rituals, your activities that used to recharge you after a busy day or help you unwind after an overstimulating situation … I am guessing now it is much harder to find the time and space to do them. 

Plus, as the child grows, there are social interactions that you cannot avoid. Before the baby, you chose your social circle and the people you spent time with. Now, you might have to spend an afternoon with another parent or maybe 10, at a kid’s party or a playdate. 

Also, when you feel overstimulated and your kid just wants to play, hug, talk … although you cherish these moments in normal conditions, it might seem like too much.

Here are some tips that might help you navigate the challenges of parenthood.

1. Notice what drains you the most

As an introvert, I am sure you prefer quiet. And this is not happening very often in your house, while the little one is awake. So, you will not have a quiet environment, almost never, but this doesn’t mean you need to give up and not try to make some things more bearable. 

So, pay attention for a few days, and see… What drains you the most?

The squeaky toys? The little piano that keeps singing jingle bells in the middle of summer? Or maybe “Wheels of the bus” playing for the 15^th time today?

Whatever it is, I am sure there is a solution to replace it with something equally fun for the child and so upsetting for you. There are so many options of toys that are fun and can help the child develop new abilities, without having annoying sounds.

And next time you buy a toy the make a funny “moooo” or “baaaa” sound, ask yourself: Will I find it funny after hearing it 57 times in 30 minutes? 

2. Choose the events you attend wisely

While the child is small and every playdate involves you, no matter what, choose the people you want to spend time with. You do not have to spend an afternoon with a person you don’t like, just because “it is good for the child to interact with others”. If you strongly believe that and you want to have some playdates, choose the parents that you enjoy spending time with. 

Later on, the child will make friends, so, you will have to spend time with his friend’s parents, from time to time. But there’s hope here as well. After a certain age, playdates do not have to include all the parents, so, you might drop him off at his friend’s house or have them over, without having to interact with the parents if you do not feel like or you do not have things in common. 

And, here is the good news: dropping your kid off at his friend’s house means … quiet time or alone time for you!

3. Schedule some “me time”

Think about what helps you recharge and make sure you schedule it every week. 

A yoga class, an hour of massage, going for a coffee alone with a book, a walk in the park or … just having a relaxing bath. Whatever it is that brings you pleasure and makes you happy, make sure you plan it ahead.

Trust that your partner or maybe the kid’s grandparents will handle things for one hour. 

After all, the better you are, the better you can be there for the baby’s needs after. 

4. Ask for help

Introverts are known for being independent and not relying very much on others. This is a great quality and it helps them in their lives. 

But, as a new parent, with so many extra responsibilities, lack of sleep and all the stress that this new role brings you… it might be a good idea to ask for help. 

You might think that you need to do everything yourself. Or that … nobody does it like you want it. 

But, overwhelming yourself does not make you a better parent. 

Think a bit about everything you do, and what is actually important and vital to be done by you and only you. For the rest, like house chores for example, ask help for your partner or hire help for some small stuff. 

The most important thing is to take care of the baby that needs you in order to survive, and to take care of yourself. 

Let go of the guilt and don’t try to compete with anyone or to prove that you can “do it all”. Maybe you can, but with what cost? And, even if you could, this does not mean that you should. 

So, in conclusion, we think introverted parents can do an amazing job, just like they can do anything else. 

Introversion is just a personality trait that comes with good things and challenges. And the key to handling anything as an introvert is to understand yourself, accept it and make the best out of it. 

You do not have to force yourself to be different and you should not be ashamed to express what you need, especially if what you need is a bit of quiet or alone time. 

You are amazing just as you are and the fact that you read this article and you are looking for ways to be a better parent, already gives you a better chance at it. 

Stay close for more resources or join our community for more support in your growth. 

Did you find this useful? Can you share your personal experience and what helped you deal with the challenges of parenting as an introvert? 

Leave us a comment below with your personal tips, maybe it will help another parent.