Parenting is a wild ride, and sometimes you just have to let go of what doesn’t work for you. Here are seven things I’ve decided to stop doing as a mom, and honestly, it feels liberating!
1. Daily Baths Are Out
The idea that kids need a bath every single day? Not anymore. Unless they’ve been playing in the mud or are grimy from a day outside, I’ve realized that my little ones don’t need to soak every evening. In the summer, a quick rinse is enough, but in winter, it just dries out their skin. Two baths a week is perfectly fine. Goodbye, soggy wrestling matches with my toddler and preschooler!
2. Simplifying Bedtime Routines
Everyone insists that a bedtime routine is essential, and sure, it’s nice to have one. But when it stretches to an hour and involves a laundry list of activities—from singing songs and reading three books to elaborate games and a dozen goodnight hugs—it’s just too much. Now, I’m keeping it simple: tooth-brushing and a speedy prayer, said while I eye the cocktail cabinet. It’s more honest to my own sanity!
3. Organic Everything? No Thanks!
I spent too long debating whether to cough up an extra $2 for organic apples, often ending up with no apples at all. I’m done stressing about it! As long as my kids are eating fruits and veggies, that’s a win in my book. We can’t afford to spend a fortune on organic produce, and honestly, who has time for that?
4. No More Vegetable Battles
With my first child, we turned dinnertime into a negotiation over how many bites constituted a “real” bite. By the time my second came along, I discovered Ellyn Satter’s approach, which has made meals much more peaceful. Sure, my son once exclaimed, “This looks like an old head,” but at least we’re not arguing over broccoli anymore!
5. Patience Has Its Limits
I aim to be patient, but let’s face it—sometimes chaos reigns. When one child is blasting “Oh Susannah,” the phone is ringing, oatmeal is burning, and another child whispers questions only a dog can hear, I can’t guarantee my calm. Kids need to see that it’s okay for normal people to lose their cool. It helps them understand real-life situations!
6. A Clean House? Not a Priority
I once thought motherhood meant becoming a full-time cleaning lady. But I’m done with that! Instead of picking up after my kids like a servant, I’m teaching them to help out. Whether it’s putting clothes in the hamper or picking up toys, I’d rather have a slightly messy home than feel like a martyr.
7. Me Time Is Essential
I truly miss the quiet weekends I used to have. So, we’re introducing a half-day-off policy. Each parent gets a break from 8 a.m. to noon once a week. The other takes the kids out, and I can finally enjoy some time to myself—whether it’s organizing my hair ties or just sipping coffee in peace. It’s going to be glorious.
So there you have it! Sometimes, letting go of these traditional expectations frees you up to enjoy motherhood a whole lot more. For more insights, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination at Kindbody. And if you’re curious about fertility supplements, Make a Mom is a great place to start. If you’re looking for even more tips on this journey, visit Intracervical Insemination for additional advice.
Summary
In this light-hearted take on motherhood, Jamie Carter shares her decision to abandon seven traditional parenting practices that felt overwhelming or unmanageable. From simplifying bath times and bedtime routines to redefining expectations around cleanliness and patience, she emphasizes the importance of finding what works best for both her and her children. This journey is all about enjoying the chaos of parenting without the pressure of perfection.