In a neurodiverse family, the demands of parenting can be overwhelming. The author and their husband have established a practice of taking full nights off from parenting duties a few times each month. This allows one partner time to recharge while the other manages the household. This intentional separation of duties has reduced burnout, allowed them to reconnect personally, and improved their relationship. As a result, they show up better for each other and their kids, demonstrating how effective this practice can be for caregivers.
One of us is completely off duty while the other runs the show, which helps us reconnect with ourselves without the stress of parenting duties.
This simple practice has been essential to our marriage, friendships, and personal wellbeing, allowing us to recharge from constant caregiving.
Our friends have marveled at the idea, showing that our decision to take full nights off has resonated with others in similar situations.
We were managing logistics, but rarely connecting; our practice has given us time to not feel stretched thin and maintain our relationships.
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