As my neighborhood welcomes a wave of enthusiastic new parents, I can’t help but think about the lessons I’ve learned from my own parenting journey. With my kids now in elementary and middle school, I have a bit of time to reflect on the triumphs and the blunders (mostly blunders) from their younger years. So, here are ten things I’d do differently if given the chance:
- No More Hamsters
Owning hamsters was a recipe for stress. I spent so much time cleaning their cage that my own home was neglected, and in the end, they didn’t even survive. If I couldn’t keep tiny rodents alive, how could I think I was ready for the responsibility of raising kids? Talk about a parenting confidence killer! - Avoid Overscheduling the Dolls
While I get the charm of American Girl dolls, my daughter’s doll had a higher social calendar than I did! From snowboarding to violin lessons, she quit everything. It was a disappointment that could’ve led to a therapy session at the American Girl hospital! - Teach a British Accent
Imagine the peacefulness and politeness in our home if everyone spoke with a British accent! “Mummy, I missed the loo” sounds so much better than “I peed on the floor again.” I truly believe this would have added a touch of charm to our chaos. - Skip Disney World with Toddlers
Taking a 3- and 5-year-old to Disney World felt like competing in an extreme sport. We raced from ride to ride, and by the end of the day, we were exhausted and cranky. What was meant to be magical turned into a marathon for Dumbo! - Ditch the Baby Einstein Obsession
Those “educational” videos were my go-to while I cooked dinner, but all they did was make my kids barnyard animal experts. Those skills did not translate to useful knowledge in school. I’d like a refund on all those hours, please! - Hold Off on Sports Until Age 6
Our son started soccer at age 3, but retired at 5. Now he regrets it. My husband reminds him he didn’t enjoy it, but kids’ preferences change as quickly as their love for pants. Better to wait until they’re actually interested! - Lie About Kids’ Menus
If I had told my kids that the kids’ menu featured gourmet options like arugula salad and salmon, maybe they wouldn’t be so hooked on pizza and chicken nuggets. A little creativity could’ve expanded their palates! - Cut Back on Expensive Classes
I spent a fortune on “music” and “gym” classes for my toddler. Sure, my kid could wave a parachute and hit a xylophone, but did we need to pay for that? At the end of the day, no six-pack was achieved, and I wondered what the point was. - One Big LEGO Set for Every Occasion
When my son became obsessed with LEGOs, I kept buying sets, only for him to declare, “I don’t like LEGOs anymore!” I should have just given him one large set to enjoy over and over again, instead of falling into the marketing trap. - No Big Birthday Parties for Little Ones
We threw our son a massive Spider-Man party when he was just 2. Years later, he couldn’t even remember whose party it was! I learned that kids go to so many parties that they can’t keep track. Just take some photos at other kids’ celebrations and save yourself the trouble!
So, there you have it! If you’re a new parent, take note of my missteps. And remember: “It goes by so fast.” Or maybe don’t tell new moms that—#11!
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Summary
Reflecting on my parenting experiences, I’ve realized there are many changes I would make—from avoiding hamsters to refraining from extravagant birthday parties for toddlers. Each lesson learned has shaped my approach to parenting. So, take my advice, and maybe you’ll navigate this parenting journey with a bit more ease!