Ever since your son was a toddler, you have intentionally coached the words, “need some space” to help him learn to advocate for his own independent time. It is also a way to let your still young son know that you, too, have a need for alone time. Even in a family of two, it is important to realize that it is alright to ask for this down time. 
In fact, you are certain that realizing the importance of alone time is good for all.
As a result, early on your son asked for space when he was feeling emotional or wanting to focus on something. Sometimes you tell your son you are going to give him some space if he gets worked up and you want us to make sure that you do not get short with one another. This space allows him to cool off. 
On a rare occasion, you have told Quentin to give your some space with tears streaming down your face because some times are too hard times and even moms need a second to compose themselves.
Most of the time the two of you can just look at each other and know some space is needed.
Not in anger. Just space.
You have also discovered that you also need white noise in your independent time, you always have. 
It used to be DVDs of 90s romcoms but today it is binge watching a popular sit com.
Different people use different kinds of practices when they realize they need to get some space at home. In fact, the pandemic has made this practice even more important.
Fortunately, as winter makes its last appearance in many parts of the country there are many stores that are offering closeout sales that can help in creating these spaces that so many people need. Closeouts on popular books provide the escape some people need; closeouts on bedroom comforters provide a chance to create a fresh space in a house; and closeouts in home improvement stores can literally help people build the space that they need.
Realizing the importance of creating a quiet or comfort zone in your home is important. Internet marketing and digital marketing firms know this as well. 
They promote products that allow people to make their homes a sanctuary. And if shopping online does not provide the items you need, it is interesting to note that walking the aisles of your favorite store searching for white labeled sale tags is relaxation to some as well.
Taking Care of Self Is Not a Selfish Act
What is the latest thing you have done to make sure that you are your best person? After a long winter of sometimes quarantining at home with limited in person visits to those outside of the home it is important to note that there is a growing need for face to face interactions. With outdoor patios and other spaces being more of an option as temperatures improve, it should come as no surprise that more and more people are looking for these opportunities. 
And whether you are the kind of person who enjoys sitting outside reading alone or a quiet conversation with one or two close friends, realizing the need for these breaks is important.
As the nation anxiously awaits for things to return to normal it is increasingly important to find those spaces and times when you can regroup and prepare for the next set of challenges you will surely face. Teaching your children to do the same is an important coping skill you can pass on. Calmly addressing the need for space allows both parents and children an opportunity to regroup and create the best possible setting for the rest of the day, the rest of the week, and, sometimes, the rest of the month. 
Knowing how often you need this space to yourself is a nuance that some people fail to master. Waiting until you have a complete mental or physical breakdown does not help anyone. Asking for the space you need sooner rather than later allows families to respectfully live in the same spaces and creates a way for everyone to live their best lives whenever for as long as possible.
