As a parent of two young children, I often find myself fretting about whether my kids will ever reach adulthood. I also worry about the ways I might be failing them, but that’s a topic for another day. In our age of constant online comparison to other parents, celebrities, and even those fellow moms at the playground, it’s easy to feel inadequate. My resolution? I’ve decided to stop worrying.
I encourage you, fellow parents of toddlers, to join me in this mindset. One day, your little ones will grow into normal, functioning adults. So take a moment to breathe deeply and—yes, let it go. Here are several things you can stop stressing about:
- Potty Training Success Will Come: Your child will eventually learn to use the toilet and will not be in diapers indefinitely. As I navigate the potty training journey with my son, who seems to sit on the potty numerous times a day with minimal success, I remind myself that this phase won’t last forever. Despite the occasional mishaps, I can confidently say that most adults don’t have accidents; your child will master this skill and you will bid farewell to diapers for good.
- Pacifier Dependency Will Fade: It’s unlikely you’ll encounter many high schoolers clutching pacifiers during exams. While I’m not overly concerned about my 2.5-year-old’s pacifier use, I know she will eventually relinquish it. Rest assured, your child will too.
- Selective Eating Will Evolve: Most of us develop more varied tastes as we mature. Your child may currently prefer chicken nuggets or frozen waffles, but over time, they will be exposed to new foods and flavors, perhaps even enjoying veggies after an entertaining performance of dancing carrots and broccoli.
- Consistent Sleep Patterns Will Develop: One of the most pressing questions for new parents is, “When will my baby sleep through the night?” As a parent of toddlers, I can confirm that this milestone will come. Your children will eventually establish a sleep routine, and you might even find yourself having to wake them up for the day.
- Desire for Co-Sleeping Will Diminish: Presently, I find myself with barely any space in my queen-sized bed, as both kids seem to need to be as close to me as possible. However, I know that one day they will no longer seek out my pillow for comfort, and I won’t need to worry about this stage forever.
- Independent Play Will Flourish: While it may feel as though your children require constant supervision, they will eventually learn to entertain themselves. They will draw, create stories, and play imaginatively without your assistance. You’ll soon find that you can accomplish tasks without interruptions.
- Clothing Will Become Optional: Unless your child chooses to embrace nudity as a lifestyle, they will learn the importance of wearing clothes in public settings. For now, embrace their nudist phase; it means less laundry for you!
- Bath Time Resistance May Lessen: It’s uncertain if your child will always despise bath time, but remember that every friend group needs a “stinky kid” now and then.
In conclusion, as parents, we often expend mental energy worrying about countless trivial matters. Instead, we should focus on cherishing the loud, chaotic, and beautiful moments of this stage in life. Your children will grow up, become independent, and perhaps even embrace their unique quirks. Ultimately, what matters most is the love you share.
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Summary
This article reassures parents of toddlers that common concerns regarding potty training, pacifier reliance, picky eating, sleep habits, co-sleeping, independent play, clothing, and bath time will eventually resolve. Emphasizing the importance of cherishing the present, it encourages parents to release unnecessary worries.