Be Inspired..!!

A funny survival guide to reclaiming free time (with some Amazon treasures to help along the way)

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When the school year starts, parents often find themselves in unfamiliar territory: free time during the school day. The house that once echoed with snack requests, sibling debates, and last-minute homework scrambles suddenly feels… quiet.

For many moms, dads, and guardians, that quiet can feel both refreshing and overwhelming. What’s the best way to use those hours while the kids are at school? Should it be for chores, hobbies, rest—or maybe a mix of all three?

Here are ten relatable, easy, and fun things to do when kids are back in school—along with Amazon products that make school-day free time more enjoyable.

1. Reclaim the Kitchen Without the Chaos

No more picky eater debates or rushed family lunches. School hours give parents time to enjoy cooking again—or at least try a recipe that doesn’t involve chicken nuggets.

Amazon product: Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer — perfect for salmon, roasted veggies, or even crispy fries (for later when the kids get home).

2. Read Something That’s Not a School Email

Many parents admit they forget what it feels like to sit down with a good book. With kids back in school, there’s finally time to read for pleasure instead of just skimming newsletters or permission slips.

Amazon product: Blue Light Blocking Readers — protect your eyes whether flipping through an e-book or enjoying a paperback.

3. Move Your Body (Without Stepping on Toys)

One of the best uses of school-day hours? Moving without interruptions. Stretch, do yoga, or even follow a quick workout video without someone asking for a snack mid-squat.

Amazon product: Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat — supportive, comfortable, and easy to roll up when you’re done.

4. Enjoy Coffee That Stays Hot

Parents everywhere know the struggle of reheating the same coffee multiple times. School days are the perfect chance to actually savor a hot cup.

Amazon product: Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug — keeps coffee or tea warm for hours so you can sip at your own pace.

5. Rediscover Hobbies

Many parents set aside hobbies once family life got busy. With a few kid-free hours, it’s possible to bring them back—whether it’s painting, knitting, journaling, or puzzles.

Amazon product: Watercolor Paint Set for Adults — simple, beginner-friendly, and relaxing.

6. Create a Cozy Corner

Turn a quiet corner into a personal sanctuary. Add a chair, a soft blanket, and maybe a plant to make downtime feel intentional.

Amazon product: ZZ Plant in a Ceramic Pot — low-maintenance, resilient, and instantly uplifting.

7. Stream Without Guilt

After school drop-off, the TV doesn’t have to be tuned to cartoons. It’s okay to binge a series, catch up on a documentary, or watch a feel-good comedy.

Amazon product: Sherpa Fleece Blanket — cozy enough for watching, reading, or even sneaking in a nap.

8. Organize… Or Not

Some parents love tackling closets or garages during school hours, while others prefer using that time to recharge. Both are perfectly fine approaches.

Amazon products:

• Clear Storage Bins — for those in the mood to organize.

• Yeti Rambler Water Bottle — a reward for those choosing self-care instead of chores.

9. Catch Up With Friends

Without the background noise of kids, phone calls feel more relaxed. Reconnecting with friends or family is a great way to use free hours.

Amazon product: Echo Dot (5th Gen) — hands-free calling and music make multitasking easy.

10. Do Absolutely Nothing

Not every hour has to be productive. Sometimes, the healthiest choice is to simply rest.

Amazon product: Weighted Blanket — adds comfort to naps or quiet lounging.

Wrapping It Up

Free time when kids are back in school doesn’t have to mean racing through chores. It can be a mix of productivity, relaxation, and rediscovery. Whether it’s cooking, streaming, organizing, or simply sitting in silence, the important thing is making those hours meaningful.

So here’s the question: what’s the first thing you like to do when the kids head back to school? Do you dive into projects, take time for self-care, or just enjoy the quiet?

Share your answer—you might inspire another parent (and yes, maybe add something new to their Amazon cart).

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases, but this does not affect my recommendations.I only suggest products I’ve personally vetted.