Silence certainly is golden. Throughout the day, Mom hears crying, whining, screaming, fighting and endless requests from her bambinos. Give her ears a rest by taking the kids outside for some playtime. I just need a half-hour to myself to regain my sanity. But, of course, it will be messy again in a few hours after the next meal.
Mom spends lots of time in the kitchen.
Something as simple as dad cleaning the kitchen, or another area of the house, gives Mom a much-needed break. Call Mom during the lunch hour and suggest pizza be delivered for dinner. A fresh, hot meal and Mom didn't have to cook. Perhaps she'll even get to enjoy it while it's hot. Take over the evening routine with the kids a few night a week.