Finding Time to Read as a Busy Mom: Tips for Making It Happen

As a stay-at-home mom, finding time for yourself can sometimes feel like an impossible task. Between managing household chores, attending to your children’s needs, and juggling a million little things, the idea of sitting down with a book might seem like a distant dream. However, carving out time to read doesn’t have to be as challenging as it seems. Here are some practical tips to help you find time to read as a busy mom.

1. Establish a Reading Routine

One of the most effective ways to find time for reading is to establish a consistent routine. Whether it’s in the morning before the day starts or at night when the kids are in bed, setting aside a specific time for reading can help you make it a regular habit.

• Morning Moments: Wake up a bit earlier than your children to enjoy a few peaceful minutes with your book. Even 15 minutes of quiet reading can set a positive tone for your day.
• Before Bed: Dedicate the last 30 minutes of your day to reading. It’s a great way to wind down and transition from the day’s activities to a restful night’s sleep.
• Nap Time: If your little ones still nap, use that time for yourself. While it’s tempting to use nap time for chores, a little bit of reading can also be rejuvenating.

Looking for a new book to read? Check out this post! 18 Best Books For Stay At Home Moms

2. Embrace Short Reading Sessions

You don’t need to read for hours at a time to make progress. Embrace the beauty of short, focused reading sessions. Carry a book with you and read during those unexpected breaks.

• Waiting Time: Use the time while waiting for appointments or during your child’s extracurricular activities to squeeze in a few pages.
• Waiting for the Bus: If you’re waiting for your child’s school bus, this can be an excellent opportunity to read.
• While Cooking: Consider listening to an audiobook while preparing meals or doing simple household tasks.

3. Incorporate Audiobooks into Your Day

Audiobooks are a fantastic way to enjoy literature without needing to sit down with a physical book. You can listen to audiobooks while you’re doing other tasks, making it easier to fit reading into your day.

• Household Chores: Listen to an audiobook while cleaning, doing laundry, or cooking.
• Exercise Time: Use your workout time as an opportunity to listen to a book. Whether you’re walking, running, or exercising at home, audiobooks can make the time more enjoyable.
• Commute: If you drive or use public transportation, listen to an audiobook during your commute.

4. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Setting small, manageable goals can make reading feel less overwhelming and more attainable. Start with simple objectives and build from there.

• Daily Page Count: Set a goal to read a specific number of pages each day, even if it’s just five pages.
• Weekly Reading Targets: Aim to finish one book per month or read a certain number of books each year.
• Reading Challenges: Join a reading challenge or book club to give yourself a structured goal and stay motivated.

5. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

Having a designated reading space can make the act of reading feel special and inviting.

• Comfortable Spot: Find a cozy corner in your home where you can relax with a good book. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a comfy chair and good lighting can do the trick.
• Decorate: Make your reading nook inviting by adding a soft blanket, a cup of tea, or your favorite snacks.

6. Involve Your Kids in Reading

Turn reading into a family activity. By making it a part of your family routine, you can enjoy quality time together while also finding moments to read for yourself.

• Family Reading Time: Set aside a part of the day where everyone reads together. You can read your own book while your children read theirs.
• Read-Alouds: Share books with your children through read-aloud sessions. This can be both educational and enjoyable for the whole family.

7. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Incorporate technology into your reading habits to make the most of your time.

• E-Books: Carry a library of books with you on your e-reader or smartphone. E-books are convenient and allow you to read anywhere.
• Reading Apps: Use apps that let you track your reading progress and discover new books.

See This Post For Book Recommendations For Moms!

Making Reading a Priority

Ultimately, finding time to read as a busy mom is about making it a priority. By identifying small pockets of time and setting up a routine that works for you, you can create space for the books you love. Remember, reading is not just a luxury—it’s a way to enrich your life, gain new perspectives, and enjoy moments of relaxation.

So go ahead, pick up that book you’ve been eyeing, and carve out a little bit of time just for you. You deserve it!

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How Do You Find Time to Read?

Do you have any tips or tricks for finding time to read as a busy mom? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!