In today’s parenting landscape, the influx of information can feel overwhelming, as highlighted by experts like Sarah Watts in The New York Times. Parents often grapple with the pressure to define themselves by specific parenting styles—be it Gentle Parenting or Helicopter Parenting. Yet, as many discover, these labels can become burdensome. Here are seven parenting approaches I’ve decided to abandon since the arrival of my second child.
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Elaborate Bento Box Parenting
With my first child, I indulged in an assortment of adorable items—not just essentials like cribs and blankets, but also whimsical touches like polar bear-shaped snack containers from Etsy. Now, with my second, the novelty has faded; I often find myself packing my older child’s lunch in a worn-out yogurt cup and a repurposed Altoids tin. -
Polished Attire Parenting
Before children, I thrived on finding the perfect outfit. After my first child, I maintained a decent wardrobe. But after the second, I’m barely avoiding full-on sweatpants mode. As my friend Lisa wisely puts it, “Avoid the Eileen Fisher trap.” Now, I’ve settled into a comfortable yet stylish middle ground with black, loose-fitting pants and draped tops. -
Zombie Frog Parenting
Remember that biology class trick where a pin could make a dead frog twitch? That’s how I feel when my son cries in the night—like a lifeless being being poked. Rather than rushing to his crib, I now give it a moment, allowing him to settle back down on his own. More often than not, the initial shout is merely a test. -
Overly Diplomatic Parenting
In my early parenting days, I would crouch down to my child’s level to discuss plans, like, “Emma, it’s time to head home since Daddy will be back soon, and we should think about dinner, alright?” My preverbal child, however, was far from understanding and would simply scream in protest. Now, I’ve shifted to a more straightforward approach: “We’re leaving now,” and we go, avoiding the unnecessary negotiations. -
Casual Cocktail Parenting
With my first child, I enjoyed a drink while preparing dinner, but with the arrival of the second, I realized I needed to keep my wits about me. Now, I reserve cocktails for after the kids are in bed to ensure I’m not overrun by my two exuberant children. -
Intense Eye Contact Parenting
Initially, I was committed to the principles of attachment parenting and intense engagement with my infant. However, as time passed, I learned that children can thrive without constant, hyper-focused attention. Now, when my second child wanders into the kitchen, I often find myself pleasantly surprised, as if rediscovering them anew. -
Obsessive Cleaning Parenting
I used to scrub every corner of my home daily, donning rubber gloves and a fierce determination. Now, I’ve realized that a quick wipe with a Clorox cloth suffices, as I navigate the mystery of why there’s always something gritty underfoot.
As you navigate the complexities of parenting, remember that letting go of certain expectations can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. For more insights into home insemination and parenting topics, check out this other blog post. If you’re looking for authoritative resources, Make a Mom offers valuable information, and WebMD is an excellent resource for understanding pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, parenting is a journey filled with continual learning and adaptation. By shedding certain styles, I’ve found a more balanced approach that suits our growing family.