When we think of self-care, we often picture quiet moments alone — a hot bath, a solo walk, maybe a rare nap in a quiet house. And yes, those things matter. They refill your cup and remind you that you matter too.
But here’s something just as powerful and often overlooked:
Self-care can also be shared.
It can be tiny, intentional moments you build together — as a family.
In fact, some of the deepest bonds are formed not during grand adventures, but through quiet rituals where everyone feels safe, seen, and connected.
Let’s explore some gentle self-care practices that not only soothe our souls but also bring our families closer.
1. 🌅 Start the Day with a Family “Check-In”
Before the rush of breakfast, school runs, or morning meltdowns, try starting the day with a few intentional minutes together.
Ask:
- “How are you feeling today?”
- “What’s one thing you’re looking forward to?”
- “Do you need anything from me today?”
This teaches your kids emotional awareness and builds trust. It also reminds them — and you — that feelings are always welcome.
2. 🕯 Create a ‘Calm Corner’ — for Everyone
Set up a little nook in your home with soft pillows, calming scents, sensory tools, or quiet books. Make it a space that anyone in the family can use when they need to regroup.
It becomes a shared act of care: “I love you. And I know sometimes we all need space.”
And yes, parents — you can use it too. Let them see you model self-regulation and rest.
3. 📚 End the Day with Connection, Not Correction
Instead of reviewing all the “don’ts” and “not agains” of the day, try a gentle bedtime ritual:
- A short story or poem
- A few minutes of quiet music
- Sharing three things you're grateful for
Even on hard days, ending with warmth reinforces that your relationship is strong — no matter what the day held.
4. 🍲 Cook or Snack Together — Slowly
Choose one day a week to make a simple snack or meal as a team. Not rushed. Not perfect. Just shared.
Let your child stir, sprinkle, or taste. Let them lead (even if it gets messy). Play music. Be present.
Food made with love — and laughter — is self-care that fills more than bellies.
5. 🧼 Turn Ordinary Tasks Into Sensory Moments
Folding laundry? Add lavender drops and let your child help sort by softness.
Bath time? Make it a glow bath, add calming scents, or try some sensory fizzies.
Brushing teeth? Try brushing together and making funny faces in the mirror.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence.
6. 💌 Write Notes to Each Other
Leave a sticky note in their lunchbox. A message on the mirror. A drawing in their room.
And let them write to you too. “I love you” scrawled in 6-year-old handwriting can make any day better.
It’s self-care for the heart — reminders of how loved we are.
7. 🌙 Family Quiet Time
This one’s especially helpful for sensory-sensitive homes.
Dim the lights. No screens. Soft music or nature sounds. Everyone chooses a quiet activity — coloring, reading, cuddling.
Even 15 minutes of quiet togetherness calms the nervous system and builds a shared rhythm of peace.
The Magic Is in the Small Things
At FluffyGlowfish, we know that parenting — especially neurodivergent parenting — isn’t always smooth. It’s real. It’s raw. And some days feel like you’re holding it all together with glitter glue and deep breaths.
But when you sprinkle your days with small, soul-soothing rituals, you’re not just surviving — you’re building something beautiful.
Not just habits, but memories.
Not just structure, but connection.
Not just self-care, but family care.
Here’s to the little things that keep us close. 💛
Kindest Regards
Samantha Joubert