Weekends used to stress me out. They were supposed to be a break—but between catching up on chores, keeping a child entertained, and trying not to unravel completely, they often felt like work in disguise. As a solo parent, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of things that need to happen in a two-day window. But over time, I’ve found a rhythm that works for us. One that leaves room for rest, connection, and the kind of structure that actually helps us breathe easier, not feel boxed in.

Start Slow, Always
One rule I stick to: nothing too early. Our Saturdays begin slowly, on purpose. We sleep in a little, make coffee, and enjoy the rare quiet of a morning with nowhere to be. My daughter plays. I drink my coffee in peace and play Wordle. Nobody is expected to be dressed and out the door by 8 a.m. It’s the mental exhale we both need after a long week of school, work, and the constant hustle.

I used to feel guilty about this—like we were missing out on time we could be “doing something.” But now I recognize the value of this soft start. It’s a gift, and it sets the tone for a calmer, more present weekend.

Saturday = Social
Once we’ve eased into the day, I make sure we have at least one social activity planned. It might be a playdate, a backyard hang with friends, a firepit evening, or even just an hour of chatting with another grown-up while the kids run wild. Without this social time, I start to feel isolated—and that can spiral into a low mood pretty quickly. I’ve learned to treat social connection as a non-negotiable. It’s how I refill my tank. It makes me a better parent and a happier person.

As a solo mom, these moments are also how I stay connected to a broader community. It’s not just about the kids playing—it’s about me too. Having friends who get it, who are in the same stage of life, or who just want to sit around and talk about anything other than school drop-offs and screen time limits—that’s life-giving.

Sunday = Spirit and Structure
Sundays have their own rhythm. We go to our congregation, where we see familiar faces, get a little moment of reflection, and feel part of something bigger. It’s grounding. For me, it’s a spiritual reset. For my daughter, it’s a familiar, comforting part of her week. It also helps reinforce values and connection, and gives us space to talk about things that matter.

Sometimes Sundays also include structured activities like Girl Scouts, or a birthday party, or a community event. I try not to overbook, but I do try to leave room for these regular commitments—they add variety and purpose without overloading the day.

And then, of course, come the chores. Groceries. Laundry. Tidying up whatever messes accumulated over the week. I used to dread these tasks, but now I try to treat them as another rhythm—something predictable and even comforting in its routine. We put on music, divide things up, and knock things out together.

Why This Works for Us
I’ve stopped chasing the “perfect weekend”—the one where everything gets done, no one whines, and we make magical memories on cue. Instead, I aim for something simpler:

• A slow start
• At least one meaningful social connection
• A moment of reflection
• A chance to reset the house and our energy

This structure gives us space to be human. It helps me be more present. And it makes the weekend feel like something I look forward to—not just another list of responsibilities.

If you’re a solo parent (or just a tired one), consider rethinking the way your weekends are built. You don’t need to go full Pinterest. You don’t need a packed calendar to feel accomplished. Rest isn’t lazy. Social time isn’t frivolous. And your weekend doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be just right.