Parenting is not for the faint of heart. From surviving sleepless nights and temper tantrums to navigating discipline, education, and so many other things, parents are everyday heroes. And no matter how long the nights are or how loud the screams are, we wouldn’t trade it for the world. Nothing compares to watching your little one grow each day and discover the world around him. Some days are harder than others, and it’s much too easy to beat yourself up on the hard days with thoughts that you aren’t a good parent. So whether you’re having an amazing day with your kids or you’re just trying to make it to bedtime, there are a few things we want you to remember.
You are the best parent for your child.
End of story. Don’t compare yourself to the other parents in your life, not even your own parents. You are exactly the mom or dad that your child needs.
It’s OK to not have it all together.
No one has it all together. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s what matters. The laundry can wait.
No parent is perfect…and no child is either!
You don’t expect your children to be perfect, do you? Of course not! So don’t put such an unrealistic standard on yourself. It’s OK to mess up. Every day is a new day to start fresh.
You know what is best for your child.
People love to share parenting advice and opinions, but you know your child better than anyone else. Don’t forget it.
Your kids love you.
You’re their favorite person in the world. You’re the one they want when they scrape their knee or hear monsters under the bed. They are learning how to handle big emotions, but never forget how much they adore you.
It’s OK to ask for help.
You can’t do it alone. You’re not admitting defeat if you hire a babysitter so you can have some alone time. In fact, getting some relief can help you be an even better parent. You’re not a bad parent for needing some time to yourself.
These are the good old days.
We’ve all heard it: the days are long, but the years are short. Every day won’t be perfect, but enjoy as many of them as you can.
You will make it through this season, and the next one, and the one after that.
Every season has new challenges and new victories, but it’s always just a season. You will get through it, and be a better mom or dad because of it.
You are doing an amazing job.
Really. You are doing an amazing job.
Print this list out or write down the ones you need to remember most, then put them in a place that you will see every morning or throughout the day. Whatever you do, remember that you are an incredible parent.