The world has always been full of different perspectives and pressures, but with social media and the digital world quickly growing, those perspectives and pressures can be extra intense, especially for parents. Scrolling and seeing families and parents who appear perfect can make you question what you’re doing wrong. But here's a gentle reminder: The “perfect parent” doesn’t exist.
Perspective, the way someone sees or understands something, is a powerful thing. You might already hear different parenting perspectives from friends and relatives, but in this digital era where phones are always close by or TVs are constantly playing a show or movie, you are more exposed than ever to expectations that you may think are the standard, but really, they can be unrealistic. It can be easy to feel like you’re not good enough, but you are.
Calm mornings, clean homes, and happy kids all day, every day, is not realistic, and you might feel the pressure to match those ideals. So how do you drown out those unrealistic expectations that can seem like they’re screaming at you? Change your perspective and write your own narrative. Some days can be full of tears or chaos, and that’s okay. Some days the dishes, laundry, and trash may pile up, and that’s okay too.
Feeling guilty when these things happen is common. If they happen, it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It might just mean you’re busy parenting or working, or you don’t have the capacity to take on more at the moment. It's important to let go of those feelings of guilt and focus on what you are doing right.
Focus on what truly matters: the love and care you give to your child. If your energy is low, try connecting with them in simple ways, like smiling and nodding. Sometimes just a bit of acknowledgment and encouragement is all they need.
You can also try practicing self-kindness, recognizing your efforts, and celebrating the impact you have on your child’s life. No matter how small, celebrate your wins. This can help you manage stress and avoid burnout. If you have a long to-do list, instead of trying to tackle it all at once, try breaking it up into 10-minute intervals. Remember that parenting is a journey, not a race or a competition.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to parenting, and we all need a break from time to time. Sometimes screaming or crying into a pillow, taking a break behind a closed door to collect yourself, or venting in a journal is needed. Taking short breaks to recharge can make it easier to manage stress. Asking for help from trusted friends or family can also be a great way to feel less overwhelmed.
It can be hard to make these changes, but you can do it. And when it feels like you can't, reach out for help.
Support comes in many forms. When you’re ready, there are people and resources available to support you in your parenting journey. Free or low-cost local family activities can be a lifesaver, offering connection for yourself and your little one without adding financial stress or going through the efforts of planning an activity yourself:
Libraries might have activities dedicated to different age groups, like story time for babies or preschoolers, or even parent-child music and movement classes.
Fire departments sometimes hold tours where kids can see fire trucks up close or have fire safety days.
Local law enforcement may host bike safety events with helmet checks or car seat checks to help make sure they’re properly installed.
Some hardware or crafts stores might even host monthly or seasonal events, like building projects or family craft days.
Meeting up with a friend at your favorite park or going for a quick walk around the block can be a great way to let out any built-up energy and soak up the sun.
And don’t forget to check out our Instagram and Facebook pages for additional parenting support and to see when our Stronger Starts Roadshow tour is in your area!
Sometimes it might feel hard to leave the house, let alone travel with children. You might think, “But what if they have a meltdown or tantrum?” The answer? “It’s okay.” Children are full of energy and feelings that they may not know how to process yet. And just as children take time to understand their feelings and the world around them, learning how to handle these moments as a parent also takes time.
Try shifting the focus to the good things, like your child’s toothless or baby teeth smiles, the sparkle in their eyes, their never-ending curiosity, their little fingers and toes, or their high-pitched giggles—the list is endless. No matter how small, finding the joy in the little things can turn a day around.
With parenting being the long journey that it is, don’t forget to make time to take care of yourself or treat yourself. Treating yourself doesn’t have to break the bank. It could be as simple as doing something that brings you joy for 5 or 10 minutes, like listening to your favorite song or watching a video of your favorite comedian. Connecting with your child and celebrating yourself can also go hand in hand, like spending time outside together, playing a game that you like, or going out for ice cream together.
Remember, your efforts are making a meaningful difference in your child's life. Focus on progress, not perfection, and trust that you're doing better than you think.
