How the pressure on parents to celebrate every calendar event adds up
It's common for parents to feel overwhelmed and stressed out by the need to celebrate every event on the calendar. From birthdays, anniversaries, Mother's Day and Father's Day, to World Book Day, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Pancake Day.
There are so many different occasions that require us to buy gifts, plan activities and think of others. This can all add up to a lot of pressure for parents who want to make sure their kids experience these special moments in life.
This blog explores some of the key calendar events we’re all up against right now.
The pressure of children’s birthdays
Birthdays are a big deal in many households. Parents are expected to pull out all the stops in planning celebratory activities and a day of surprises for their kids. It’s a lot of work - not to mention headspace - from organising parties and decorations, putting together goodie bags and baking cakes, to inviting friends over for a fun-filled celebration.
Let’s not dwell too much on how much these things' cost nowadays. It’s a lot.
If you have more than one child, you may have multiple birthday parties throughout the year with little time to recuperate in between. What’s more, birthdays aren't just about celebrating your own children - you also need to remember your nieces', nephews' or friends' kids’ birthdays too.
Seasonal events that add to the mental load of parenting
It’s not just birthdays that cause parents stress; there are plenty of other events throughout the year that you might feel the pressure to celebrate too.
Valentine’s Day gifts
Mother’s Day
Easter eggs
Father’s Day
Back-to-school shopping
Halloween costumes and decorations
Christmas presents
These seasonal events can put a strain on parents who have to think about what thoughtful gifts they should get for their loved ones, which restaurant to book, and what creative ideas they have for entertainment.
All this added pressure means that parents often find themselves scrambling around at the last minute trying desperately trying to get everything sorted before each event arrives.
The physical load increases too
The mental load of parenting leaves you brain-tired. But all of these things carry with them a physical load too.
Keeping the house clean and tidy
Getting rooms ready for guests
Stocking fridges full of food
Juggling work and time to think, plan and do
Managing day-to-day tasks such as nursery runs, the bedtime routine and finding time for coffee
Finding time for you to rest and recover (really?)
It’s no wonder so many of us are left feeling constantly under pressure, stressed out and over-tired.
We live in an age where we are expected (or feel pressure upon ourselves) to celebrate every momentous occasion. From birthday celebrations to Christmas shopping – it feels like an endless cycle from one event straight into another, without any time for rest or recovery.
While celebrating these moments can bring families closer together, it is important not to forget about our own mental and physical health too - take some time off from planning activities and spoiling our loved ones if needed – because, ultimately, looking after ourselves is essential if we want our families to thrive amidst these hectic times.
Access 100s of checklists on the Parent List App for free
Get ready for the ultimate parenting assistant! With just one click you can get started on parentlist.app for free. You'll unlock 100s of helpful checklists to make your life as a parent easier than ever before. From fun activity ideas to spark joy in little ones, snooze-inducing bedtime routines and simple ways to support the whole family’s health. Join our community for free today.
