You’ve signed your child up for Tennis Afterschool Zone. They love rallying with friends for a full hour after being stuck behind a desk for most of the day. There’s no better way for them to work out all that pent-up energy than with games and lessons that keep them on the move. But what about you? You have a whole hour without them that you didn’t before, and while it feels like a lot—and not—at the same time, you want to make the most of every moment. So, what should you do?
If you are still in shock over your newfound free bit-o-time, don’t worry. We’ve got some fantastic ideas for how to make the most of it.
One of many parents’ biggest complaints is not having the time to fit a work out in. On the bright side, now you’ve got a full hour to sweat it out! On the not-so-bright side: now you don’t have an excuse to skip exercising. An hour is just enough time to fit a jog or a run in, hit the weights, go for a swim, or take a fitness class at a local gym or community center. Don’t want to spend your whole hour sweating? Fit in a quick workout at home.
Most people save it for the weekend, but you can definitely knock this task out in an hour. Peruse your favorite cooking sites from your phone or your desktop at home. There are tons of sites that have amazing ideas for fast family meals. But, if you really want to turn your downtime into a task that’s enjoyable, break out those old cookbooks you’ve been meaning to flip through but have never found the time for. You might find that this regular chore is actually more of a hobby.
No one wants to do the grocery shopping with kids in tow. You’ve put together your weekly meal plan, now go get the goods. You’ve got just enough time to stroll leisurely through the isles without feeling rushed.
Be honest, when was the last time you read a really good book? Make this time, you time! Stock your kitchen with your favorite teas or hot chocolate. Fix a warm cup and curl up with a great story. You’ll be surprised at how quickly the time flies when you’re doing something you love.
Parents are notorious for putting of basic selfcare. How long have you been putting off that haircut you desperately need? Get it now! Next level the pampering with a manicure or pedicure. You can even treat yourself to a massage. If you just can’t deal with the mom or dad guilt that goes along with that much indulgence, at least let yourself soak in a bath for a bit.
Who wants to spend their Sundays prepping meals for the rest of the week? Not you! Take this time to do it so you can spend your precious days off with the people you love most.
While your child is at TAZ you can participate in your own tennis lesson as a local tennis facility (Bonus: if you’re in Vancouver the Vancouver Tennis Center has plenty of options for lessons or court rentals!).
An extra hour or two to yourself each week can stretch a long way. Make the most of the time your kids spend in Tennis Afterschool Zone so that when the weekend rolls around you can spend more time with family and friends.