How Volunteering Helps Moms with Toddlers Thrive

When people think of volunteering, they often picture someone with a lot of free time, no small children, and a completely uninterrupted schedule. That’s not a picture that fits most moms I know—especially, stay-at-home moms who chase toddlers around all day. 

But here’s the truth: volunteering isn’t just about giving your time—it’s about rediscovering parts of yourself in the process. And as a mom who’s been in the toddler trenches (more than once!), I can say from experience: the right volunteer opportunity can do wonders for your mental health, confidence, and connection to your community.

When we were engaged, Derrick and I discussed volunteering as a couple. Eventually, we found an opportunity to help engaged couples that started shortly after we got married. This is a ministry we incorporated our children into. With each additional child, it became more challenging, but because it was a value, we made time to continue volunteering with Catholic Engaged Encounter. Usually, it took us away two weekends a year and between 2-20 hours a month, depending on the year. We sought an opportunity to bring us closer together when life got busy. It did and it did. 25 years later, we’re still active in this ministry..

Let’s Talk About the Myths First

Myth #1: I don’t have enough time.

Yes, raising kids is a full-time job. But not all volunteering means hours away from home. Sometimes it’s helping out at an event for an hour, writing thank-you notes while your little one naps, or picking up groceries for a neighbor.

I also participated in many organizations that met after my husband was home in the evening, which gave them time to bond without mom and me time to connect and engage with adults.. 

Myth #2: I can’t bring my toddler. 

There are plenty of family-friendly volunteer options! I’ve brought my little ones along to pack donation bags, deliver meals, or help with clean-up at events. It teaches them compassion and gives us time together doing something meaningful.

Several organizations, such as City Park, offer family volunteer opportunities. You can also pick up trash at parks or tidy up the library after visits. Teaching our children about helping when they are little sets the stage for volunteering when they are older.

Myth #3: Volunteering is for other people.  

You don’t need a specific skill set, degrees, or a resume full of experience. You're already qualified if you have a willing heart and the desire to help.

Some years, I volunteered in capacities where I was experienced in the request, while other times I used those opportunities to learn a new skill. Volunteering is a great way to learn or polish skills to add to your resume or discover a new business.

Now Let’s Talk About the Benefits

1. Connection

Being home with young kids can feel isolating. Volunteering connects you with other adults—many of them fellow moms—who understand the season you’re in. Conversations, even short ones, can be uplifting and life-giving.

Through volunteer efforts, we met some of our closest friends. We’ve also met acquaintances and discovered resources that are helpful to us and those we know.

2. Purpose Beyond the Home

We pour so much into our families (and rightly so), but sometimes we need to remember who we are outside of “mom.” Volunteering helps you reconnect with your gifts, passions, and the kind of impact you want to make in the world.

One of the most challenging aspects of being a stay-at-home mom for me was feeling unappreciated and invisible. I understand that it comes with the territory, but I missed the acknowledgement of a job well done. I used my creative mind with my littles, but I longed for larger problems to solve. Volunteering gave them back to me. 

3. Personal Growth 

Whether you're helping organize an event, stuffing envelopes, or serving on a committee, you’re building and sharpening skills—leadership, communication, time management—that may come in handy later in work or ministry.

Through volunteering, I gained years of experience in everything from public speaking and drawing to practicing Robert’s Rules of Order and organizational skills.

4. Modeling Service for Your Kids 

When your toddler sees you helping others, it plants a seed. You’re showing them that we care for our neighbors, that our hands are meant to serve, and that giving feels good.

My children were born into a family of givers. Modeling how to do that came naturally. One of my favorite aspects of homeschooling was defining education, which for us included volunteering. Because giving back was a part of our curriculum, we built in time to do it. 

5. It Feeds Your Spirit

There’s a unique joy that comes from serving others. It shifts our focus from what we’re missing to what we can give. That shift can be incredibly healing and grounding in the midst of the emotional highs and lows of motherhood.

From sharing our money, time, skills, and even our house, we have been so fulfilled!

What Kind of Volunteering Works for Moms with Littles?

- Stuffing envelopes or kits at home  

- Helping at a church nursery or kids' event (your toddler can join in)  

- Packing food boxes at a community center  

- Making meals or baked goods for families in need  

- Donating your creativity—making flyers, social media posts, or writing newsletters from home  

- Reading at the library or joining a storytelling group  

- Helping at a local nonprofit’s family event—bonus points if there’s a play area!

Final Thoughts

Volunteering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It doesn’t have to pull you away from your children. And it certainly isn’t something you have to put off until they’re “older.”  

It’s a beautiful way to stay connected to the world, your gifts, and your purpose—even in the messy, love-filled chaos of raising little ones.

So the next time you feel stuck, isolated, or a bit “off,” ask yourself: Is there a small way I can give back this week?

You might just be surprised how much you receive in return.