Being a mom is often compared to having a full-time job, so enjoying a hobby alongside raising tiny humans isn’t an option for many. But one mom is determined to prove that you can do both.
Racking up 2.3 million views on TikTok, Presley Pritchard, 31, can be seen breastfeeding her daughter Beckham, now eight months old, while on a soccer pitch.
Pritchard, who lives in Dallas, Texas, told Newsweek: “I wanted to show moms they can still take time for themselves to enjoy hobbies like working out while incorporating their child and to ditch the mom guilt because it’s OK to be a little selfish sometimes.”
The text layered over the clip says: “Just a reminder: you are always a mother. But you are not ONLY a mother.”
Presley Pritchard/TikTok/@presleykp
Pritchard explained that she was playing with her partner and she heard Beckham, then six months, cry from the stroller.
She said: “As a mom, our first priority is to meet our baby’s needs.
“I sat on the sideline letting her dad have a turn at playing in the game while I fed her and felt so grateful to be able to have the breastfeeding experience.
“As well as the relationship where we can still have fun and show our baby from a young age how important it is to do the things you love.”
The online fitness coach – who uses the handle @presleykp – advocates hobbies for parents. But that seems far from the reality for many, according to a study conducted by meal delivery service Munchery, found that parents only had 32 minutes to themselves per day.
The survey of 2,000 American parents also found that they endure six car rides per week taking the kids to school or extracurricular activities. Some parents stated they are forced to “hide” from their children to get a moment’s peace.
Pritchard believes it doesn’t have to be this way and parents can indeed enjoy sports and exercise by following one simple instruction.
“My biggest fitness tip for those who would love to exercise and follow their fitness journey is to take your kids with you,” she said.
“Let them see what it’s like to take care of themselves, prioritizing their health, wellness, and happiness.
“I am a mom of three and have taken my kids to do everything since they were born.
“I do home workouts with my baby if I can’t make it to the gym or don’t have childcare. You can always find a way.”
TikTok Reacts
Pritchard hopes her video, which has 67,300 likes, breaks the stigma that “life is over” when you have children.
She said: “In the video, I took a break to breastfeed my baby, showing that moms are still going to put their kid’s needs first but they can also do things for themselves.”
The clip shared in February has gained a lot of attention – mostly from mothers.
One user said: “I’m a first time mom to a 11 week old and you don’t know how bad I needed to read this.”
Another said: “Freaking Love THISSSSSSS. I have 5 and force myself to remind me what I LOVE TO DO.”
“My baby is four months old and I’m struggling so hard. I’ve lost myself. I don’t see myself anymore. I’m so lost,” said a third commenter.
If you have a family dilemma, let us know via [email protected]. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.