Guest article from birthmademindful.com.
Photo by Pixabay
The sun is shining and daffodils are beginning to bloom, which means, it’s time to open every window of the house, then wipe down those windows, it’s Spring Cleaning! Spring Cleaning is a time of downsizing, organizing, and renewing. This not only applies to our belongings but also to our parenting! Clean out the habits that are creating dissonance in your family.
You can’t receive anything if your hands are full. What do you actually use and need? This pro tip applies to our belongings and our parenting tool belt. If something isn’t working, get rid of it! There’s not enough mental space for broken possessions or parenting strategies that no longer serve your family.
Declutter Your Home, Declutter Your Mind
Every spring, I get the itch to clean out the closets, sort through toys, and finally tackle that dreaded junk drawer. How did every drawer in the house become a junk drawer, seemingly overnight?! But what I’ve come to realize is that our homes reflect our minds. When the house is chaotic, my mind feels overwhelmed. When things are organized and tidy, I feel more patient, more in control, and more able to respond positively to those around me.
Start small. One drawer, one closet, one room at a time. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I love this? Does this serve a real purpose? If the answer is no, donate or discard it. You can load a box or two and set items aside, broken items, brick-a-brack that no longer brings you joy, or outdated objects. The same principle applies to our parenting. Are there rules, routines, or even mindsets that no longer serve your family’s well-being? Let’s clear them out.
Letting Go of Parenting Habits That No Longer Serve You
Parenting is an ever-evolving journey. What worked when your children were toddlers might not be effective now. Just like clearing out that pile of unused kitchen gadgets, we need to reassess our parenting techniques. Are there habits or approaches that are creating unnecessary stress or conflict in your home?
For example, I used to insist on a perfectly structured bedtime routine, with every step followed exactly. But as my kids grew, I found myself fighting battles over tiny details that weren’t as important as the goal: winding down and getting restful sleep. I had to let go of my rigid expectations and embrace a routine that worked for our changing family. And guess what? Bedtime became so much smoother once I was more flexible.
Take a moment to reflect: Are there battles you’re fighting that don’t really need to be fought? Are you holding onto parenting strategies that just aren’t working anymore? Spring is the perfect time to reassess and make room for more peace in your home.
Organizing Spaces for a Calmer Household
One of my favorite things about spring cleaning is that sense of renewal —of fresh energy flowing through a decluttered space. This applies to our homes and routines as well. I’ve learned that when my home is set up in a way that supports my family’s needs, everything runs more smoothly.
- Kid-friendly Organization – If toys and books are always a disaster, simplify. Reduce the number of toys available at one time, use bins with labels, and involve your kids in the process. Try out a toy rotation, and test out the theory that less is more.
- Morning Routine Simplification – Create a streamlined routine so mornings don’t feel like a mad scramble. A designated spot for backpacks, shoes, and jackets can save so much stress.
- Meal Planning & Prep – If dinner always feels like a last-minute panic, try a loose meal plan or prep some go-to ingredients ahead of time. A sure way to fail is to wait until 5 pm to decide what’s for dinner or to start cooking when everyone is already hungry. Even a little bit of planning earlier in the day can make a huge difference in your daily stress levels.
Emotional Spring Cleaning: Releasing Mom Guilt
Moms, we carry so much. Not just physically—diaper bags, laundry baskets, groceries—but emotionally. And a lot of that weight comes in the form of mom guilt.
We feel guilty for not being present enough, or for needing breaks, or for not making every meal from scratch. But here’s the truth: You don’t need to hold onto guilt that doesn’t serve you. And no amount of guilt serves you!
This spring, let’s release the guilt. Just like those old clothes that no longer fit, guilt needs to go. Draw upon the experts in your life – friends, podcast hosts, authors, and take what works for you, then let go of an idealistic system or plans that do not fit you or your family. Parenting is full of imperfect moments, and that’s okay. Your children don’t need a perfect mom—they just need you. Let go of unrealistic expectations, and embrace the beautiful, messy, and real version of life that you’re living every day.
Renew Your Parenting with Connection
After clearing out the old, it’s time to renew. Spring isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about making space for new growth.
One of the most important things I want to cultivate in my home is connection. When my kids feel connected, they are more cooperative, more secure, and our home is simply a happier place. Here are some simple ways to prioritize connection this season:
- One-on-One Time – This popular and widely taught practice has been proven by many social scientists. In our family, we call this Together Time. Even 10-15 minutes of focused attention with each child can make a world of difference. Let them choose the activity and make it their special time.
- Slow Down – It’s so easy to get caught up in the rush of daily life, but sometimes, the best moments come when we pause. Sit with your kids, listen to their stories, and soak in the funny and profound things they say.
- Gratitude Practice – Teach your kids (and yourself) to notice and appreciate the good. A quick “What was your favorite part of today?” At dinner can help shift the focus to the positive.
The Growth Mindset: Holding Space for Growth
Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about making intentional choices. Let go of what doesn’t serve you. Hold onto what brings you joy. Make room for the growth that is happening, both in your home and in your heart.
This season, let’s step into renewal, not just in our spaces, but in our parenting, our mindset, and our connection with our families. Because just like a freshly cleaned home, a refreshed heart makes room for all the beautiful things to come.
So, grab those donation boxes and maybe even a journal. It’s time to clean the house, inside and out. Happy spring cleaning!
Written by Sarah Ziroll
Sarah is a musician, birth coach, wife and mother, raising boys who are 7,4 and 2! She loves making everything a bit more exciting with an over the top DIY project. Her life’s mission is to infect others with happiness and radiate positivity. Dedication, Diligence and Determination are three words she strives to live by! She is a yellow personality and a social butterfly!
Check out her online Birth Courses so you can create The Best Birth!