Not too long ago, I decided to embark on a little experiment with my children, ages 3 and 4. Lately, they had been throwing tantrums, screaming, and generally testing my patience. As a natural “fixer,” I often find myself wanting to mend what seems broken. I approached their behavior as a challenge, something I could reshape into something more manageable.
So, I declared a “yes” day. The idea was simple: give them whatever they wanted in hopes of creating a harmonious and joyful atmosphere—picture a scene straight out of a Disney movie, complete with laughter and perhaps even a little singing.
The day began with their favorite games, a mix of dancing, singing, and imaginative play. I even went so far as to allow them to get creative with glitter, a true sign of desperation. We ventured to the park, indulged in their preferred snacks, and even baked some muffins together.
I was fully engaged, affirming every little thing they did, pouring my energy into making this day amazing. Yet, despite my efforts, the outcome was far from what I had envisioned. The whining, crying, and tantrums continued unabated. It became clear that my children were still just that—children.
Through this experience, I learned that toddlers and preschoolers are not challenges to be resolved. They are little individuals navigating a complex world. They are learning about boundaries, emotions, and the consequences of their actions. They are developing their identities within the family and figuring out who they want to become.
One “yes” day—or even several—would not fix the challenges of parenting. What I discovered is that children are not problems to be solved but people to be nurtured. They need guidance, patience, and love, not just a day filled with indulgence.
As a fixer, it’s tough to accept that I can’t simply resolve my kids’ struggles. However, I can commit to giving them my best every day. Some days, I have the patience to engage in a puzzle or listen to them tell the same joke repeatedly. Other days are more challenging, and I recognize that I’m human too, with my own ups and downs. But if I give them my all on those good days, I can trust that they will grow into wonderful individuals.
My hope moving forward is to embrace more evenings where I feel proud of my parenting and fewer nights filled with worries about my mistakes. And I wish the same for you, fellow parents.
For more insights into the parenting journey, check out this post on navigating parenting challenges. Also, if you’re considering options for at-home insemination, Make A Mom offers reliable kits to assist you. For further information regarding pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC provides excellent resources.
Summary
Embracing the challenges of parenting requires understanding that children are not problems to be fixed, but individuals to be loved and guided. By letting go of the need to “fix” their behavior and focusing on nurturing their growth, parents can foster a more positive environment for their children to thrive.
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