223. Why Does Parenting Make You Forget Everything?

You walk into a room and can't remember why you're there. Your keys end up in the fridge. You forget permission slips, lunches and appointments, then wonder if you're simply becoming forgetful.

You're probably not.

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explores what actually happens inside the brain after becoming a parent. They explain why "baby brain" isn't about losing intelligence, how caregiving changes the way the brain organizes information, and why parents often feel mentally overloaded.

You'll also hear practical ways to reduce mental clutter, including creating an external brain with calendars, visual checklists, launch pads, routines and simple systems that make everyday life easier.

If parenting has left you feeling mentally stretched, this conversation offers reassurance and realistic strategies you can begin using today.

Homework Ideas

Homework Challenge: Build Your "External Brain"

Choose one area where you feel mentally overloaded and create a system so your brain doesn't have to remember everything.

Create a family calendar.

Whether it's digital or paper, keep every appointment, activity, practice and event in one place that everyone can see.

Create a launch pad.

Choose one location near your door for:

• Backpack
• Keys
• Wallet
• Lunch bag
• School agenda
• Sports equipment

Everything goes back to the same place every day.

Take photos instead of relying on memory.

Create picture checklists for:

• School backpack
• Hockey or ringette bag
• Beach day
• Camping
• Sleepover
• Travel

Keep the photos on your phone for quick reference.

Automate one recurring decision.

Ideas include:

• Meal planning every Sunday
• Buying matching socks
• Keeping duplicate chargers
• Packing bags the night before
• Preparing lunches in batches

Reduce the number of daily decisions you need to make.

Schedule recovery time.

Try one of these:

• 10–20 minutes of Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR)
• Yoga Nidra
• Six-Mississippi hugs with your child
• A short walk
• Quiet reading
• Time with your pet

Looking after yourself helps your brain support everyone else.

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