Parenting is a journey often filled with unexpected challenges, and my personal approach could best be described as “doing my best and feeling guilty about it.” As I embarked on this journey, I quickly learned that concepts like sleep training sounded much simpler before becoming a parent myself. Prior to having children, I envisioned myself as the unwavering parent, impervious to the cries of a distressed child. In stark contrast, I found myself overwhelmed by the tears of my little one, and the first time I allowed my infant to cry for more than five minutes, I scooped him up and whispered endless apologies.
I often observed friends who had their children tucked into bed before prime time television, allowing themselves hours of free time in the evenings. I envied their apparent success and felt as if I was somehow failing in my own parenting journey. The discussions at the park about “nap schedules” only intensified my feelings of inadequacy, as I grappled with the exhausting reality of sleepless nights. Any stories of other children successfully sleeping or eating felt like cruel taunts rather than encouragement.
In my attempts to provide homemade baby food for my eldest, I quickly discovered that while he relished it fresh, he rejected anything that had been frozen. Given my full-time job, making fresh food became an unrealistic goal. Consequently, I found myself agreeing with other mothers who criticized fruit pouches, all while secretly relying on them for convenience.
My children tend to run around the house until late in the evening, surviving on a diet that includes spaghetti, broccoli, eggs, peas, hot dogs, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I’ve never crafted an adorable school lunch nor volunteered at my son’s preschool. The colorful masterpieces created during our art sessions are now simply stored away in a plastic bag rather than celebrated. My four-year-old is well-versed in the theme songs of every Nick Jr. show and has mastered the skill of navigating YouTube on my phone. Meanwhile, my two-year-old daughter frequently exclaims phrases like “no way,” “aww man,” and “Jesus Christ!”
Despite these realities, I do strive to do my best as a parent. My version of “best” may not align with others’ standards, but I’ve come to accept that is okay. For a long time, I felt as if I was merely coasting through parenthood, with my pre-kid aspirations slipping away. I constantly measured my parenting against others, which led to feelings of inadequacy. Yet, my children are happy and thriving, and they are surrounded by love.
After four years, I realized my parenting style could be aptly described as “doing my best and feeling guilty about it.” I’ve come to understand that the guilt isn’t necessary. While I may wish to encourage more adventurous eating or document memories in a baby book, the ultimate question remains: Am I a good parent? Without hesitation, I answer a resounding yes.
Ultimately, that affirmation is what truly matters in the grand scheme of parenting. For more insights on parenthood and family planning, check out this informative piece on artificial insemination kits here. Another excellent resource is the Genetics and IVF Institute, which provides valuable information on pregnancy and related topics.
Summary
Parenting often involves navigating feelings of guilt while striving to do your best. My parenting philosophy has evolved to embrace the idea that while I may not meet every expectation, the happiness and love my children experience is what truly counts.
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