What does ‘me time’ look like for dads?

Promotion for Little Bellies

Between work, parenting, and the never-ending to-do list, it’s easy for dads to put their own needs last. But taking a little “me time” isn’t selfish – it’s essential.

Whether it’s Father’s Day or any other day in the family calendar, dads can benefit from “me time” just as much as mums to help balance their mental health needs. A quiet morning coffee before the kids wake up, connecting with teammates on the sports field, or simply listening to some favourite tunes, provide moments that can go a long way in recharging, reconnecting, and grounding those with busy and stressed lives.

Encouraging dads to take time for themselves can help to reassure them that stepping away briefly doesn’t make them less involved – rather, it helps them come back more present and recharged.

Here are five simple “me time” ideas for dads:

1. Gym session

Nothing clears the mind like sweating it out. Whether it’s lifting weights, hitting a boxing bag, or joining a HIIT session, this time can help dads release stress and boost energy.

2. Coffee (or tea) in peace

Get up 15 minutes before the rest of the house (yes, even before the baby if possible!) and enjoy a hot drink and a quiet scroll. No chores – just a warm cup and a few calm breaths.

3. The great outdoors

A walk, hike, bike ride, or even a quick surf – being outside helps reset the brain and body. Solo or with a mate, it’s time to unplug from work and dad duties.

4. Hands-on break

Whether it’s picking up a guitar, tinkering in the garage, or clearing a level in a favourite video game, set aside some time to do something that requires some hands-on interaction. It doesn’t have to be productive, just enjoyable.

5. Guys night

Just as girls’ night is an absolute must for mums, dads can benefit from an evening with their best mates. Keep it low-key and local to foster the opportunity to have some deeper discussions. Share some pizza while watching the footy, organise a poker or darts night, or cast a line out together at the best fishing spot.

Finding moments of connection

“Me time” doesn’t always mean escaping the chaos. Along with opportunities to socialise and relax, dads can also find little moments of connection, purpose, or peace amidst the everyday juggle of parenting. Take time to sing together, do all the voice characters in a favourite book, get down to their level with blocks or peekaboo, pop them in a front pack or stroller and go for a walk, or share a silly snack-time moment.

Just like mums, dads need support too when navigating the feeding journey with babies and toddlers. That’s why Little Bellies is proud to be a dad-founded brand, built on care, connection, and a deep understanding of what families truly need.

A brand born from real parenthood

Little Bellies was founded by two brothers, both fathers to young children. Their journey took a meaningful turn when one of their children was diagnosed with severe food sensitivities. At the time, safe and wholesome snack options were few and far between. This experience sparked a passion – and a mission – to create better food choices for all kids.

Driven by love for their families and a desire to feed their children the very best, these dads focused on creating snacks free from artificial additives, GMOs, unnecessary salt and sugar, and with minimal exposure to herbicides and pesticides. The goal was simple: to support growing bodies during the critical baby and toddler years with real, honest ingredients.

Today, that same commitment flows through every Little Bellies product.

Everyday support for everyday dads

Parenting isn’t always picture-perfect. It’s in the lunchbox packing, the bedtime snacks, the food-throwing phases, and the “just-one-more-bite” standoffs. Through it all, Little Bellies is here to offer support – not just to little ones, but to the people raising them too.

With wholesome, age-and-stage appropriate snacks, dads can feel confident they’re offering nourishing choices that support their child’s development while also making life just a little bit easier. Whether you’re introducing solids, navigating food sensitivities, or simply looking for a snack that won’t get rejected (again!), Little Bellies has your back.

Explore more: wholesome snacking for Kiwi kids

Food play, the natural way

Little Bellies also embraces the power of play as part of the feeding journey. With a variety of shapes, textures, and flavours, their snacks are designed to support fine motor skill development, encourage self-feeding, and make mealtimes more enjoyable for everyone.

Even a simple moment of playing with food can be a shared giggle, a learning opportunity, or a well-earned parenting win. It’s these moments (big and small) that form the heart of family life.

Reclaiming “me time” one snack break at a time

For dads, “me time” might mean feeling reassured that you’ve got a snack on hand that’s safe, nourishing, and actually gets eaten. It could mean sitting down with your little one to enjoy a snack together without pressure or fuss. Or it could be knowing that you’re raising happy, healthy kids with a brand that gets it because it was built by dads just like you.

Little Bellies celebrates all parents and the small victories that make up the big picture. Because when your kids are happy, you’re happy – and that’s what it’s all about.

Check out the full Little Bellies range, proudly supporting Kiwi dads and their little food explorers.

Written by Kidspot NZ with information provided by Little Bellies.

See more: