Where have all the adults gone? In making the leap from paid employment to being an at-home parent the certainty of day-to-day interactions with other adults ceases. Here are some ideas to preserve your sanity – practical ideas to minimise the feelings of isolation and maximise the enjoyment of each day. 

One of the big differences between work and life as an at-home parent is structure and routine. Even if your days appear to be a jumble of children and chores, chances are there is a glimmer of a routine in there somewhere. Whether your routine centres around feeding, naps, kindy, chores or other activities, having some kind of structure will create a sense of order, and help to distinguish one day from the other. An easy way to start developing a routine is to start small. Pick a task for each day, write it down and have the pleasure of ticking it off at the end of the day. Tackling small and tangible tasks can really make you feel as if you're accomplished something in days fraught with nappies, washing and sleep deprivation.  

An important part of a daily routine is some 'down time'. A slice of peace and quiet is often craved during a day at home, but in reality you are not likely to get that full hour of rest and relaxation that you so desperately need (and deserve!). So set up an activity for your child that you know will capture their attention for more that five minutes. Gather ideas for activities from the internet or the children's craft section at your local library or replicate your child's favourite kindy activity. Have a stash of goodies from your local dollar store on hand – some new crayons, a new drawing pad and some stickers. The moment your child is happily engaged, steal a moment for yourself and read a chapter of your favourite book, give yourself a manicure, scan a favourite website or just sit serenely in the sun. It is surprising how a few small episodes of calm throughout the day can make a difference.    

One advantage that most stay-at-home parents have today over generations past is access to the internet. Wow, emails, forums, news, information galore, and worldwide shopping, all in the comfort of your own home. Make use of online supermarket shopping – it's easy to keep to a budget and it's a treat to have it delivered right to your door. The non-intrusive nature of email is fantastic for keeping in touch, and you know that people can respond at their leisure. Think you're the only parent who is having trouble getting your child to sleep/eat/use the toilet? Log on to some of the online parenting forums to find others with exactly the same issues. You're also likely to find some helpful suggestions and solutions. Join an online discussion group and you might even make some new friends!  

Getting out of the house and into the world offers a myriad of options for the at-home parent, many of which are free to enjoy. The simple act of leaving the confines of your house is often enough to bring on a sense of renewed energy. There are a few steps that you can take to make an outing a little less daunting and a lot more enjoyable. Make sure the baby bag is ready, stocked with spare nappies, clothes, drinks, snacks etc, and replenish any used items on your return home so it's all ready for the next outing. Timing is everything. A well-rested and well-fed child will travel better than an overtired and hungry one. And take your time – don't rush. If you're going for a walk, do stop to smell the flowers, touch the grass, watch the birds and jump in the puddles. 

There are many cost-effective (or free) outings. Check if your library has storytime. This is a great way to amuse youngsters while mums or dads get to have a few moments to watch their little ones happily occupied. The local park is a great way to ease the cabin fever, and you will no doubt bump into a few other parents enjoying a breath of fresh air. Also check out coffee groups, play groups and music sessions for entertainment.

Another way to keep yourself busy is to get involved in the organisations that your child is a part of. Plunket, Playcentre, kindergarten, school, sports clubs and church groups are always looking for a helping hand. This also gives you a chance to use some of those skills that you gained while in the paid workforce such as leadership, management, negotiating, and time management.

Of course, it is also vital to retain some sense of self, and to treat yourself to some time, however small, without your little darlings. Conversations with adults, something once taken for granted, may be in short supply to the at-home parent. Make the time to catch up with friends and past colleagues over a coffee and look to converse about other topics – the stuff you used to chat about before you had children. This is especially important with friends who are yet to experience parenthood. Be sure to ask them questions about what is going on in their lives to avoid dominating the conversation with baby talk. Taking a night class at a local school is another way to broaden your interests as well as meeting other adults with a common interest.    

Easing into the role of the at-home parent, whether for the short or long term, can take a little time. However, with a few simple ideas, you can learn to manage your days and keep your sanity intact.