The concept of a bucket list has gained quite a bit of buzz in recent years. So, naturally, I found myself pondering what my own Parental Bucket List might look like. I’m not referring to the usual milestones like achieving career success or mastering basic life skills like fastening their shoes. Instead, I’m focusing on the more nuanced — yet equally significant — experiences I hope my kids will accomplish before they spread their wings and leave the nest (assuming they ever do, of course).
- Dress themselves neatly, without resembling a tornado aftermath.
- Remember to grab their backpack and lunch on the way out the door to school.
- Avoid using their clothes as makeshift napkins.
- Master proper hygiene after bathroom visits.
- Engage in playtime together without my constant supervision.
- Shower thoroughly and rinse out all the shampoo and conditioner.
- Return home with everything I sent them to school with just eight hours prior.
- Complete their homework independently, without needing constant nudges.
- Hang up their snow gear instead of leaving it in a heap on the floor.
- Learn to raise the toilet seat before doing their business.
- Clean their rooms before I reach a breaking point.
- Offer more than just “fine” or “it sucks” when I inquire about their day at school.
- Go to bed and actually remain there throughout the night.
- Brush their teeth twice daily without reminders or tantrums.
- Refrain from tracking dirt throughout the house after bathroom trips.
- Place dirty laundry in the basket, or even better — take it to the laundry room.
- Eliminate the phrase “I’m bored” from their vocabulary.
- Keep their tissues and socks off the floor.
- Put away their laundry without being prompted, and not just shove it all into one drawer or hide it under the bed.
- Wash and put away the dishes; honestly, I’d settle for just getting the dishes into the sink. If I’m really pushing my luck, maybe even loading the dishwasher would be nice.
It’s clear this list may lean into the realm of wishful thinking. But if others can aspire to visit the Seven Wonders of the World, why can’t I dream that one day my child might actually put the cap back on the toothpaste? If you’re interested in related parenting insights, check out this article on our other blog. And for those considering at-home insemination, Make A Mom provides reliable options for syringe kits. If you’re seeking guidance on what to expect during your first IUI, this resource on parents.com is an excellent starting point.
In summary, the journey of parenting is filled with both lofty aspirations and everyday realities. The small victories — like mastering personal hygiene or organizing their clothes — are just as vital as the big milestones.
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