Parenting can often feel like a never-ending list of expectations, many of which can leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Here are seven common practices I’m choosing to step away from, and why that might be a good idea for you too.
1. Daily Baths for the Kids
Let’s be real—unless your children are playing in a mud pit, they really don’t need a bath every single day. Sure, rinsing off after a day at the beach is essential, but during the colder months, daily baths can dry out their skin. I’ve found that bathing them twice a week is more than sufficient, saving me the struggle of wrestling a shouting toddler during bath time.
2. Elaborate Bedtime Routines
Everyone insists on having a structured bedtime routine, but sometimes it feels more like a marathon. From singing songs and reading multiple books to a complex series of rituals, it can take over an hour to settle down. Now, I’m stripping it back to just tooth brushing and a quick prayer, which, let’s be honest, I can speed through while making a beeline for the snack cupboard!
3. Stressing Over Organic Foods
For years, I stood in the grocery aisle debating whether to splurge on organic apples or settle for the cheaper ones. In the end, I often left empty-handed. I’ve realized it’s more important for my kids to eat fruits and vegetables—organic or not—than to worry about the price tag. We simply can’t drop $200 a week on apples!
4. Forcing Vegetable Consumption
With my first child, I tried to enforce a strict rule about eating vegetables before dessert. This led to endless negotiations about what counts as a “bite.” Thankfully, with my second child, I adopted a more relaxed approach, following the division of responsibility laid out by Ellyn Satter. This has made mealtimes much more peaceful—well, mostly. I still hear comments like, “This looks like an old head,” but at least we’re avoiding food battles.
5. Endless Patience
I strive to be the calm and patient mom, but let’s face it—there are moments when my patience wears thin. Whether it’s a kid blasting music while I’m trying to find a phone, or another one asking questions in a whisper, it’s easy to lose it. It’s perfectly normal to show frustration, and it’s a good lesson for kids to see that even parents can reach their limits.
6. Obsessing Over a Clean Home
A friend recently remarked that motherhood can feel like becoming a professional cleaner. I clean constantly, but I’ve decided to change my approach. I encourage my kids to pitch in by putting their toys away and helping with chores. It may take longer than doing it myself, but I’d rather foster responsibility than live in a spotless home that feels like a museum.
7. Full Weekends with the Kids
One of the biggest things I miss from my pre-kid life is the simple joy of having time to myself. So, we’ve initiated a “half-day-off” policy where each parent gets time alone at home to relax and recharge, while the other takes the kids out. It’s a game changer! I can finally get around to organizing my hair ties and clearing off my desk—pure bliss!
In conclusion, it’s okay to let go of some of the pressures that come with parenting. Embracing a more relaxed approach can not only ease your stress but also create a more balanced family dynamic. If you’re looking for more insights into alternative parenting strategies, check out this blog post. And if you’re considering home insemination, Make a Mom offers reputable kits for your journey. For more information on various methods of insemination, the Cleveland Clinic has an excellent resource on intrauterine insemination.
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