How to Slow Down and Find Joy in Everyday Moments
Mama, I see you. Rushing through the morning chaos, trying to do a million things at once, barely catching a breath before bedtime rolls around.
I know because I’ve been there too—sitting on the playroom floor, overwhelmed, wondering why it all felt so fast.
One day, I realised I didn’t want to just get through these years. I wanted to feel them. To truly soak in the giggles, the sleepy snuggles, the tiny hands in mine. That’s when I started embracing slow parenting.
Slow parenting isn’t about doing less.
It’s about shifting our focus—from checking off tasks to truly being with our children.
It’s about finding joy in the little moments that make up our days. And I promise, it’s possible—even on busy ones.
Why Slowing Down Matters
Science backs what we already feel deep down—our kids don’t need more activities, more things, or more entertainment. They need us.
The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) shows that stress in early childhood can impact emotional regulation and well-being long-term. Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, a child psychologist, says: “Children don’t just need us to be physically present; they need us to be emotionally present. The magic happens in the quiet, ordinary moments.”
When we slow down, we create space for connection, patience, and calm—not just for our kids, but for us too.
Simple Ways to Slow Down (Even When Life Feels Fast)
1. Start the Day with Connection
Mornings don’t have to be frantic. Take one extra minute for a cuddle, a deep breath, or a whispered “I love you.” It sets the tone for the day.
🌿 Try this: Use our Breathing Cards for a simple breath together before heading out the door.
2. Cut Out the Clutter (and the Guilt)
More activities don’t equal a happier childhood. Give yourself permission to say no to overscheduling. Unstructured play fuels creativity and confidence.
🎨 Mindful shift: Instead of one more activity, try a slow afternoon of free play, painting, or nature time.
3. Find Magic in the Mundane
Brushing teeth, making sandwiches, folding laundry—these little routines can be moments of connection when we slow down and engage our senses.
💛 Try this: Instead of rushing, notice one small thing—your child’s tiny fingers, their giggle, the smell of their hair after a bath.
4. Put the Phone Down (Even for 10 Minutes)
I get it—our to-do list feels never-ending. But when we give our kids undivided attention, even for a few minutes, it fills their emotional cup.
📵 Challenge: A 10-minute “no-phone playtime” each day. Let them lead.
5. Create Slower Transitions
Rushing out the door? Instead of hurrying, try adding a little ritual—a goodbye hug, a deep breath together.
🌿 Try this: Our Calm Down Cards offer quick mindfulness moments to help kids (and us!) transition peacefully.
6. End the Day with Gratitude
Bedtime is the perfect time to pause and reflect. A simple gratitude practice helps kids (and us) end the day on a positive note.
✨ Ask this: “What was your favourite part of today?” or “What made you smile today?”
So remember, children thrive in environments where they feel calm and connected. When we embrace slow parenting, we create a sense of security and emotional regulation that benefits both our kids and ourselves. When we move away from the “hustle culture” of parenting, we become more patient, more attuned, and less stressed.
What’s one small way you can slow down today?
I’m a mama in the chaos of motherhood too - but it doesn’t have to feel so hard. Join my community to find ease with mindful tips and tools, arriving every fortnight.