We’ve all been there – juggling career, household responsibilities, and the emotional well-being of our families, which often peaks in intensity right after 5 PM. With school back in session and routines in full swing, most of us find ourselves facing this stretch of the day with dread. If you’re anything like me, the period between 5 PM and bedtime can feel like a marathon where everyone’s energy reserves are tapped, but there’s still so much to do. Dinner, homework, baths, books, and bedtime—plus, let’s not overlook solo time for yourself or spending quality time with your partner, if it even happens. This period in the day, is coupled with a common aspect of modern motherhood: the maternal mental load. Let’s break down why this time can be so overwhelming and, more importantly, what we can do about it.

Everyone experiences stress. When children encounter stressors, their bodies activate the "fight, flight or freeze" response, triggering a cascade of physiological reactions, which prepares the body to confront or flee from the danger or shut down to protect itself. While this response is crucial for survival, prolonged activation of stress impacts children's physical health and cognitive development. In this blog, you will have a guide to understanding your child’s stress response and where and how stress responses develop.

The holiday season is meant to be a magical time, filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments. However, for many parents, this time of year can quickly turn into a whirlwind of stress and burnout as they strive to create the perfect experience for their children. We’re calling it the holidaze – that chaotic period where the pursuit of holiday magic collides with the realities of parenting. In this blog post, we'll explore the common sources of stress during the festive season and provide practical solutions to help parents cope and truly enjoy the magic of the holidays.