Ask HN: Developers with kids, how do you do it?

[f0rfun]

Can't afford a helper.. both of us are working weekdays from 9-6. When I'm home from work, it's just catching up with my kids, house chores and then to bed.. I'm only left with short pockets of time on weekends to read/play catch up.

Feel like I'm falling far behind my readings and practice. How do I keep pace with the industry while being a parent? Is this normal?

Would love to hear from devs who are parents share your experience and how to strike a balance?

Thanks folks!

[pkrotich]

Being a parent, simply put, changes your priorities. It’s not about you anymore.

Just be patient - in a couple of years you’ll be checking on them to see if they’re still alive - because they won’t need you as much.

Being close to extended family helps - getting a weekend off from time to time to recharge does wonders.

[pontus]

+1

I have all sorts of things I want to do (books to read, projects to work on, ...). When I do have the time (at nights / during naps) I either have dishes to do, laundry to fold, or just no energy.