We recently conducted a survey in order to gain valuable insights from real parents. Shedding light on the genuine experiences of parenthood can help foster a more authentic dialogue about the parenting journey, yet so few of us really explicitly talk about.
So, without further adieu, here are some of the things that fellow parents shared.
Top tips for new parents:
- It’s okay not to know the answer.
- Your best is more than enough.
- Be kind to yourself and enjoy 10-20 minutes per day of you-time.
- You know exactly what you’re doing, just listen to your child and your instincts.
- Give yourself a break, literally and figuratively.
Topics that should be talked about more openly:
- How to choose and implement a parenting style with your partner
- How to navigate the changing relationship dynamics with your partner and your sex life during the first year after having a new baby
- How a child’s needs and emotions evolve with the developmental stages and that anxiety, depression, stress, and anger are normal
- How to follow your child’s path and not decide it for them
- How much pressure is put on moms to do it all and sacrifice themselves for their family
- How hard parenting during the pandemic has been
Parenting hacks:
- Normalize emotional health and start therapy early on.
- Teach your kid that they are the boss of their body!
- Picture your child in a happy moment when you’re frustrated
- Think playfully when it comes to problem solving!
- Compartmentalize and set boundaries to avoid feeling like you’re letting your kids down when you have to work instead of play
Number one best way to spend Mothers’/Fathers’ Day
- Ask what the parent wants, and honor it.
To all the hard working parents out there, your sacrifices are recognized and appreciated. Keep at it, even when it feels like you can’t. As always, we are here to support you through all the ups and downs of parenthood.