GREENSBORO, N.C. — It's time for 'My 2 Cents.'
Parents, do you ever need a vacation from a vacation? There's nothing that zaps relaxation…faster than a too-tired toddler.
So let's re-pack our bags and get the kids in the car. We're going back to the beach…but trying it backward this time, with a viral mom hack.
A Midwest-based content creator's video about 'backward beach days' has 73-thousand shares and counting.
Kelsey Pomeroy explained she switched up her family's beach routine…to accommodate her two young children. They do an easy activity in the morning and a restaurant for lunch, waiting until the late afternoon to head to the beach for play and a simple picnic dinner. As the sun sets, the kids have a visual cue — it's time for baths and bed.
The whole day, they've avoided peak crowds, peak sun...and peak meltdowns.
I love this idea. Why? Because Pomeroy prioritized the precious afternoon hours many parents keep free and hold sacred…for naps.
Young children…need rest. The National Sleep Foundation says by age three, nearly all children are still napping. Those who aren't — like my oldest — still need some quiet time to recharge.
The alternative often means overly-exhausted children and over-stimulated parents, trying to cram as much as possible into Instagram's picture-perfect vision of vacation joy.
Bottom line, no one has fun running on fumes. It's OK to prioritize sleep...even on vacation.
For me, the 'backward beach day' is a brilliant wake-up call. Sometimes a little 'r&r' -- means reversing course...for the kids.
Oh, and Mom...loves a good nap, too.
Sincerely,
Meghann