By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: Dec. 18, 2023
Growing up in a seemingly conventional household didn’t mean life was dull. My parents were wonderfully complex, and as I navigate parenthood with my own three kids, I realize just how much their influences shaped me. This Mother’s Day, I’m honoring my spirited mother by sharing five parenting “rules” she encouraged me to disregard.
1. Television Isn’t the Enemy
You could say my family had a unique love affair with television. We had a grand total of 20—yes, twenty—TV sets in our home! I even had my own cable box in my room before I could even tie my shoes. My childhood was filled with shows like The Tonight Show and Cheers, and I can confidently say that all those hours in front of the screen didn’t turn my brain into mush. So when my kids beg to watch their favorite cartoons, I remind myself that a little screen time never hurt anyone—though I do wish they’d keep the volume down, or I might just lose it!
2. Embrace the Unexpected
My mom was a die-hard Elvis fan. When she learned of his passing, she didn’t hesitate—she packed a bag, dropped me off with a babysitter, and hopped on a flight to Memphis for the funeral. Pregnant at the time, no less! She even took us on spontaneous road trips, like that one time we drove five hours just to grab dinner in Canada. Her adventurous spirit inspires me to encourage my kids to seize every opportunity and embrace the unexpected. Life isn’t a dress rehearsal, after all!
3. Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve
My mom loves with a passion that’s truly infectious, whether it’s her obsession with chocolate, a deep appreciation for white daisies, or her unwavering support for the Florida Gators. Because she openly shares her joys, I’ve learned to be transparent about my own passions with my children. I want them to know me—not just as their parent but as a person with interests and quirks. If they can recount my favorites one day, I’ll know I’ve fostered a meaningful connection that encourages them to be open with others too.
4. Let Loose and Be Silly
Growing up, if Bob Seger’s Old Time Rock ‘n’ Roll came on, you could count on my mom to break into a full dance routine, no matter the setting. Just last winter, she hopped on stage and danced like nobody was watching during a piano event! Her fearlessness in expressing herself reminds me that it’s okay to be goofy and vulnerable. I often find myself too reserved, but her example nudges me to push past my hesitations and show my kids that it’s perfectly fine to be themselves.
5. Engage with Everyone
My mom can strike up a conversation with just about anyone—she could probably chat with a tree stump and get its life story! Her genuine curiosity about people teaches me that everyone has something valuable to share, no matter how mundane it may seem. While I sometimes feel overwhelmed with my own life to engage fully, I aspire to cultivate that same interest in my children. Every person has a story worth listening to, and that connection enriches our shared experiences.
As I reflect on these lessons, one thing is clear: my mother never let fear dictate her actions. She didn’t stress over screen time, embraced spontaneity, loved fiercely, danced without a care, and valued every person she met. While we may not see eye to eye on everything (like her insistence that potty training was a breeze), I appreciate the wisdom she’s passed down.
And no, kids, you still can’t have cable in your rooms!
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Summary:
In this light-hearted reflection, I explore five unconventional parenting rules my vibrant mother taught me to break. From embracing television as a learning tool to being unafraid of spontaneity and vulnerability, her adventurous spirit encourages me to raise my children with openness and curiosity. Through her example, I’m learning to foster connections and encourage my kids to embrace their unique identities.