Updated: March 19, 2021
Originally Published: March 11, 2016
The golden rule in life is often to avoid comparing ourselves to others. Yet, as moms, this is nearly impossible; we spend so much of our time around other parents and their children. I frequently find myself questioning whether someone else is simply a more skilled mom than I am or if they have kids who are just easier to handle.
Deep down, I know the truth: every child comes with their unique challenges, and I’m doing my best. However, it can be tough when our kids seem to mirror our parenting to the outside world. If my child is acting out, it feels like a reflection of my own parenting skills.
My kids can be a handful, so I often choose to avoid that line of thought. I adore their spirited nature, but there are days when I catch myself saying, “Are you serious?” as my son debates the amount of sand in the sandbox. Parenting can be challenging, leading me to envy moms I never thought I would before I had my own children. Here are a few moms I wouldn’t mind switching places with, even if just for a day:
1. Moms Whose Kids Sit in Shopping Carts
Honestly, grocery stores should be giving us awards for their race-car-themed carts. It should feel like a fun ride, but instead, I find myself navigating an enormous cart through an obstacle course, while my youngest tries to escape and my older child decides to bail out. Meanwhile, I watch other moms stroll by with their smiling kids steering their carts happily, while I’m left with a cart overflowing with snacks and tantrums.
2. Moms Whose Kids Hold Hands While Walking
When my son was about 4½, he decided that holding hands was no longer cool. One moment he was beside me, and the next, he was acting like a wild animal, dodging my grasp. I often think about those parents who use leashes, wishing I could handcuff us together for safety. And even when he does hold my hand, it feels like I’m walking with a wiggly octopus, while other kids stroll calmly, hand in hand.
3. Moms Whose Kids Brush Their Hair and Teeth
Have you ever tried to brush your kid’s teeth? It’s like trying to wrestle a greased pig. No flavor of toothpaste or special toothbrush seems to entice mine, and I often wonder if they think I’m torturing them. Maybe I shouldn’t have promised to take them to the hair salon again until they start behaving.
4. Moms Whose Kids Eat Something Other Than Pizza and Toast
I know it’s typical for kids to be picky, but it’s still frustrating. I’ve tried all the tricks—smoothies and sneaky recipes—but my son inspects every bite like a food critic. I admire those parents who simply serve a meal and let their kids decide, but my child can outlast anyone when it comes to hunger. Watching other kids eat while mine whines about being “starving” is a special kind of torture.
5. Moms Whose Kids Leave Places Without Causing a Scene
When it’s time to leave, my kids act as if I’m dragging them away from a theme park. No matter where we are, the chaos begins. Sometimes I think I won’t take them anywhere until they reach adulthood and can demonstrate a bit of self-control. I often find myself reminding them of the rules we discussed before leaving, only to feel like I’m talking to a wall.
These are challenges I never expected to face as a mother. I had no idea that simple tasks would become monumental struggles. My kids are tiny, self-absorbed critics who often perplex me. But they also know just when to give a sweet kiss or bring me a dandelion, reminding me to appreciate life. While I do admire moms whose children seem more relaxed, I’ve learned to embrace the chaos and find joy in the unpredictability of my life with them.
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Summary: This lighthearted piece reflects on the everyday struggles and amusing observations of motherhood, emphasizing the challenges of comparison among moms. The author shares relatable anecdotes about grocery shopping, hand-holding, dental hygiene, picky eating, and chaotic departures, ultimately finding joy in the chaos of parenting.