Mom Interview: Raising 4 Kids Under 5

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Raising 4 Kids Under 5, an interview with a Mom who is in the midst of it.

I receive several emails a day from readers who are looking for advice on creating a more peaceful home.

Most of my readers are moms, who are in the midst of this parenting gig. I love to give out advice, but there are some topics that I just can’t offer advice on because I haven’t been there.

I also look at mom advice as a good pair of jeans. It’s never a one size fits all. What works for me may not work for you!

That is why I decided to start a segment on the blog that feature interviews and guest posts from other mommas. Maybe you are a momma raising 4 kids under 5 like our guest today. Maybe you have a blended family or you’re raising children unexpectedly later in life, whatever your circumstance may be, my hope is that as more moms share their advice and experience, you will be able to find something that really resonates with you.

Whether it makes you laugh or reminisce and say, hmmmm been there, or yes! finally some tangible advice. My desire is to have a large array of advice for you from moms who have been there or who are there now!

If you want to be interviewed for a guest post or have an idea in mind that you would love to talk about on the Peaceful Nest Blog, send me your ideas here! I would love to hear them.

Today’s interview is with Pamela, a momma raising 4 kids under 5. Yes, you read that right! She understands what it feels like to be in the depths of mommyhood with young children.

How long have your spouse and you been together?

Nevin and I will be celebrating 6 married years in July. We’ve been together for 10 years total.

How many children do you have and what are their ages?

We have a 4.5 year old daughter (H1), a 3 year old (in July) son (H2), a 1.5 year old foster daughter (L) and a 3 month old foster daughter (S).

What is the best thing about having children so close in age?

I love that they’re (for the most part) into the same things. Looking at you Wild Kratts and Paw Patrol! 🤣

What has been your biggest struggle and how do you overcome?

Our biggest challenge has been jealousy between H2 and L. We’re still working on overcoming it, honestly.

How do you make yourself a priority when you are busy?

I have found that I do best if I can manage to get up before the kids. I can have coffee and do devotions. This is not easy for me. I’m NOT a morning person. I love the “alarmy” app! My husband printed off a barcode that we have to scan before the alarm will turn off.

What does your daily routine look like?

My daily routine is definitely a work in progress as well. We have had our foster daughters for about a month. Basically I getting up at 6:30 for coffee and devotions. 

Breakfast at 8. A string of diaper changes, bottles, and chaos management. 

Lunch at 12. Naps starting at about 12:45.

Snack at 3.

Another string of diaper changes, bottles, and chaos management.

Dinner at 6. L goes to bed at 7:30 and the H’s go to bed at 8. S is usually in bed for the night by 9. 

When you are feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, what steps do you
take to de-escalate and remain calm?

Uuummmm…. hide in the bathroom and scroll Facebook? 🤣 

It depends on the situation. Usually a quick prayer, then sometimes I will put on an episode of something for the big kids and put the littles in a safe space (swing, pack and play, etc).

Then I put on an audiobook/ podcast/ KLove and knock out a few of the things that are stressing me out.

If I’m overwhelmed,  it’s usually because I feel like I’m being pulled in multiple directions. If I can knock out a few chores, I’m less distracted. 

What is the hardest part about taking care of children so close in
age?

They’re all just so stinkin’ needy! 🤣🤣 I don’t feel like there is enough of me to go around.

What are your favorite ways to keep your children busy?

WATER PLAY!!! The older 3 all have rain boots. They love to splash in puddles, play in the mud and just be silly. Having to wash off some mud is better than allowing myself to get to the “angry mommy” stage.

What advice would you give to a mom who is overwhelmed with raising young children?

Do NOT feel guilty about setting boundaries.

Time boundaries for self care. Physical boundaries for safety/sanity.

Examples: (Time) From 6:30 to 7:45 is my quiet time. If my son wakes upon that time frame, he can choose to read a book or play in his room. I’m not stopping my quiet time to make him breakfast, watch his “new trick” or whatever crazy thing he wants to do at 7 am. 🤣  (Physical) L has some major separation anxiety, as to be expected, and will throw herself in between my legs if she doesn’t believe I’m paying enough attention to her. While I’m cooking, this is dangerous.

In general,  the screaming is an anxiety trigger.

As of now, I put her in a pack and play with some toys so I can cook, load the dishwasher, etc. I’m actually having baby gates built for the kitchen/dining room area.

Once those are up, she’ll be able to play with whatever she wants, but still won’t be able to endanger herself (or me). Don’t let mommy guilt lie to you. ❤

Raising children close together doesn’t have to always be stressful! It can be joyful as well :).

Do you want to be interviewed or submit a guest post for the Peaceful Nest Blog? Send us your post idea today! 🙂

If you are new to the Peaceful Nest Blog, welcome!

Be sure to read my top posts on parenting:

• Why Consistent Parenting Matters
• 12 Habits of Immensely Peaceful Moms
• 63 Mom Hacks That are Pure Genius

Are you looking for ways to become a peaceful mom but you aren’t sure how?

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