Between work and family responsibilities, parents may feel burned out, stressed and overwhelmed. These feelings may then spill into activities with the children.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests how to deal with parental burnout:

  • Take a few relaxation breaks during the day to rest your eyes, breathe deeply and relieve stress.
  • Find ways to improve your mindset and energy as you head home from work.
  • Find small ways to make things easier, such as by getting takeout for dinner a few nights a week.
  • Have the family pitch in with household chores.
  • Don't assume too many responsibilities during the week. Let some things go until the weekend.
  • Make time on the weekends for yourself, whether it's for a quiet walk, reading a book or a stint at the gym.
Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, of Bay Shore, was killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His mother has made it her mission to aid active-duty service members, veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports. Credit: Randee Daddona; Photo credit: Cathy Heighter

'His sacrifice made a difference': Gold Star mother honors son's memory Army Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, 22, of Bay Shore, was the first serviceman from Long Island killed in the Iraq War.

Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, of Bay Shore, was killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His mother has made it her mission to aid active-duty service members, veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports. Credit: Randee Daddona; Photo credit: Cathy Heighter

'His sacrifice made a difference': Gold Star mother honors son's memory Army Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, 22, of Bay Shore, was the first serviceman from Long Island killed in the Iraq War.

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