Let’s be real: my kids don’t always come first. There are moments when I’m knee-deep in preparing dinner, and I can’t just drop everything to help my son with a shoe he insisted on putting on himself. Or when I’m folding laundry and have to tell my daughter to hang tight for a few minutes before joining her in a game of Toddler Tag. There are also times when I’m engaged in a phone call and opt to finish my conversation before I get my kids a snack.
Don’t get me wrong; my children are two of the most significant people in my life. They’re witty, amusing, and full of sass—traits they clearly inherited from me. As their mother, I strive to instill essential life lessons: manners, forgiveness, kindness, and yes, patience.
The Importance of Waiting
In adult life, waiting is often the name of the game. Whether you’re waiting for the bus, for your meal to arrive at a diner, or for the next episode of your favorite show to load at midnight while you enjoy a late-night treat, waiting is inevitable. I believe it’s crucial to start teaching my kids this reality early on.
Of course, there are moments when my immediate attention is necessary. If I hear a crash followed by tears, or if a sibling squabble escalates into a shouting match, I instinctively rush to their side. And there are certainly times when I gladly set aside my chores to play with them when they need me right then and there. Sometimes I’ll pause to help take off that pesky shoe or put the laundry aside to dance with them to their favorite tune.
Finding Balance
However, I don’t do this every time. It’s important for my kids to understand that they aren’t the center of the universe. They are incredibly special to me, but part of my duty as a parent is to raise them to be respectful, self-sufficient, and capable individuals. Learning to wait is a valuable part of that journey. They need to develop patience and the ability to entertain themselves while waiting for something important.
So yes, my kids don’t always take precedence, and I trust that one day they’ll appreciate this lesson. If not, well, I’ll just have to budget for their therapy.
Further Reading
For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out this post on Cervical Insemination. If you’re looking for at-home insemination kits, visit Make a Mom, a reputable online retailer. Additionally, Cleveland Clinic provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while my kids are incredibly important, I believe it’s essential for them to learn patience and to understand that they aren’t always the top priority. This balance is key to raising well-adjusted individuals.
Leave a Reply