💪 11 Self-Care Tips for Parents and Teachers, and how it supports a child’s Executive Function

Hey, what’s up? It’s me, Seth, from sethperler.com.

Today we’re continuing the 10-day “Back to School Executive Function Tips” series—how to support your child. And today, we’re talking about a topic I think you’re really going to like: self-care.

Now, we’re talking about back-to-school and supporting your child’s executive function. So what does that have to do with self-care?

When I talk about self-care, I like to break it into two types:

* Self-care for your child (the student)
* Self-care for you

This video is about self-care for you—the parent. And we also have a lot of teachers here, so this applies to you as well.

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My name is Seth Perler. I’m an executive function coach, and I wear a lot of hats in the executive function world. We also host a summit called the Executive Function Online Summit, where amazing experts teach parents and teachers how to support students.

But today, we’re focusing on self-care.

I’m going to give you 11 quick tips—things I’ve shared with parents over the years—to help you think differently about self-care and actually start doing it.

Let’s dive in.

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1. Modeling

The first thing is modeling.

There’s an old saying: “Do as I say, not as I do.” That doesn’t work. People don’t pay attention to what we say—they pay attention to what we do.

So what we do as adults becomes the model for our kids.

If we don’t practice self-care, we’re essentially teaching our kids: This is what being an adult looks like—don’t take care of yourself.

But when we do practice self-care, we’re modeling something very different:
This is what healthy adulthood looks like.

A lot of parents feel like they don’t have time or feel guilty taking care of themselves. But the reality is, when you take care of yourself, you’re showing your child that it’s necessary and normal.

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2. Have fun and play

So many parents I work with are burned out. They’re not having fun anymore.

But play is a huge part of self-care.

Ask yourself:

* What feels fun to me?
* What brings me joy, laughter, and lightness?

And then ask:

* Am I doing enough of that?

If not, where can you add more play into your life?

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1. Recharge

Are the things you’re doing actually recharging you?

Here’s a great question to write down:
What could I do that would really recharge my batteries?

I know you’re busy—kids, work, relationships—but what truly recharges you?

Is it:

* Sleep?
* Time away?
* A short retreat?
* Spending time with friends?

What do you need to feel restored?

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1. Learn something

What are you learning—just for you?

Not for productivity. Not because you “should.” Just because you’re interested.

It could be:

* A book
* A podcast
* A course
* Learning an instrument
* A new skill

Learning is a powerful form of self-care because it stimulates and refreshes your mind.

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1. Join something

Can you join a group, club, or community?

Being around like-minded people can be deeply supportive and energizing.

Is there something you could join that would add value to your life?

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1. Let go of what doesn’t serve you

Is there anything you’re holding onto that no longer serves you or your family?

This could be:

* Emotional baggage
* Unresolved issues
* Physical clutter

Letting go is a powerful act of self-care.

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1. Reconnect with your support system

Who are your people?

* Friends
* Family
* Colleagues
* A therapist
* Online communities

How connected have you been with them lately?

Is there a way to reconnect?

Even a simple message like, “Hey, I just wanted to check in and share where I’m at,” can go a long way.

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1. “Tell on yourself”

This means taking responsibility and being honest.

It could look like:

* Saying to your child: “I’m sorry. I made a mistake.”
* Talking to a trusted friend about something you’re struggling with

When we hold things in, they take up mental space. Sharing helps you process and move forward.

It’s also powerful modeling for your kids.

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1. Ask for help

This is one of the hardest—and most important—things to do.

You don’t have to do everything alone.

Whether it’s:

* A spouse
* A friend
* A therapist
* A support group

There are people who want to help, who care about you, and who are qualified to support you.

You are not alone.

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1. Ask for regular connection and accountability

Take it one step further.

Ask someone:

* “Can we connect regularly?”
* “Can we check in once a week?”
* “Can we support each other?”

This could be a weekly call, a monthly meeting, or even a quick regular check-in.

Accountability and connection are powerful forms of self-care.

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1. Schedule it

Whatever you decide to do—schedule it.

Put it in your calendar.

Even if you don’t follow through perfectly, the act of planning matters.

I tell kids all the time: it’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about practicing the skill of planning.

But here’s the truth:
When you schedule something, you’re far more likely to actually do it.

So right after this video:

* Open your calendar
* Block time for self-care

Whether it’s fun, rest, learning, connection—make it real.

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My name is Seth Perler, executive function coach.

I’m really grateful you’re here. I want to wish you connection with your child, peace in your heart, and joy in your life.

If you found this helpful, give it a thumbs up, leave a comment, and share it with others.

Have a fantastic day. See you soon.