Every now and then, I see a friend excitedly post on social media something like, “OMG! Just met my friend’s adorable newborn. My heart can’t take it! Babies are the best!” And I can’t help but think, Really?! Do you have amnesia about the sleepless nights, the constant spit-up, and the chaos of figuring out what’s wrong when they scream in public?
Or I might overhear a mom at the playground reminiscing about her toddler’s “adorable” antics (like swearing in front of strangers), and I want to yell, “Do you not remember why they’re called threenagers?!”
Then there are parents raving about how “totally awesome” it is to have teens because they can borrow their clothes and stay up-to-date with the latest lingo (like knowing what “fam” means). Seriously?! Using “totally awesome” in a sentence sounds a bit out of touch.
The debate about the best parenting stage is just as heated as other topics, like whether to go for an epidural or if a three-year-old should get an iPad. If you gather a group of parents, you’ll get a myriad of opinions on which stage is the best. So let’s break it down.
Baby Stage
Pros: They’re soft, cuddly, and incredibly cute. They sleep a whopping 20 hours a day and can be taken anywhere. Just strap them in their car seat, and you’re off to the store or a new café (though that car seat weighs a ton).
Cons: Despite their lengthy sleep, it’s broken into short bursts, making it feel like you’re never fully rested. And when they cry in public, you’ll be left guessing what’s wrong while dashing out of a restaurant, sweat trickling down your back, leaving behind half-eaten meals.
Toddler Stage
Pros: They’re still cute and fun, wobbling around on their tiny legs. Naps become a reality, and they might even sleep through the night, giving you a taste of normalcy. Plus, they can express their needs: “Me wan milk!”
Cons: Everything becomes a hazard: electrical sockets, cleaning supplies, and even your favorite lipstick. And just when you think you’ve got it made, a meltdown can occur because the milk is in the wrong colored sippy cup.
Preschool Stage
Pros: You get a couple of hours of peace while they’re at school. They return home ready for a nap, and you’re still their favorite person.
Cons: When not at school or napping, they’re like a whirlwind of energy, leading to more exhaustion than you felt during the baby stage. Their glittery crafts take over your home, and their mood swings can rival those of a full-blown teenager.
Grade School Stage
Pros: This is often dubbed the “sweet spot.” The magic of childhood remains, but now they can dress themselves and spend hours at school. Plus, they can entertain themselves on Saturday mornings and troubleshoot your tech issues.
Cons: Homework can be baffling—you’ll wonder why third-grade math is so complicated now. Also, fights over TV shows can erupt quickly, leading to chaos in the living room.
Tween Stage
Pros: They don’t outright hate you yet.
Cons: They’re not exactly fans either.
Teen Stage
Pros: You witness them morphing into mini-adults. You can enjoy activities together, from shopping to watching movies. They manage their own schedules and homework.
Cons: The worries multiply—sexting, drugs, and driving mishaps. They may forget to fill the gas tank, and you’ll struggle to keep up with their slang, not to mention the infamous eye-rolls.
So there you have it: the pros and cons of each parenting stage. You’d think that would settle the debate, right? Nope. My favorite stage? It has always been the one we’re currently in.
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Summary
Each parenting stage has its unique joys and challenges, from the cuddly baby phase to the independent teen years. Ultimately, the best stage is the one you’re in right now, making every moment special in its own way.