Becoming a mother for the first time at 34 came with a laundry list of parenting principles I was determined to uphold. Little did I know, reality would soon challenge each of those ideals. For every rule I set, I discovered compelling reasons to toss them out the window.
1. Co-Sleeping Is a No-Go
I envisioned my little one peacefully settling into a bassinet, but that dream quickly vanished when the nightly cries began. After endless hours of wakefulness, co-sleeping became not just a choice but a necessity. With sleep deprivation creeping in, I’d have happily slept with a baby strapped to my forehead! Now, as our son turns 6, cozy family sleepovers are still a cherished ritual.
2. Formula? Not on My Watch!
I grew up hearing horror stories about formula, but guess what? My son, who was breastfed until he was 2, occasionally enjoyed a bottle of formula, especially on days when I was at my wit’s end. My husband wisely pointed out that my misery was unnecessary, and as a result, we all got better sleep.
3. Sugar Is the Enemy
My dad was a health fanatic who kept me away from sweets, but I still found ways to sneak treats. The result? A childhood with more cavities than I care to admit! Now, I believe in moderation. My son enjoys a gummy worm here and there but isn’t a sugar hoarder.
4. Only Organic? Not Always Possible
Ideally, we’d all feast on organic food, but life has its ups and downs. Sometimes convenience trumps perfection. Plus, let’s not forget my parents’ generation thrived on canned Spam and Jell-O!
5. TV Is Off-Limits
We initially adhered to the “No TV before age 2” rule, but as a work-from-home mom with an only child, I eventually accepted that sometimes a little screen time is necessary. Now that he’s in first grade with homework, an hour of downtime (however you define it) is perfectly fine.
6. One Meal Fits All? Not Quite
It turns out my son has different taste buds than I do. While I adore mint and plums, he can’t stand them! Additionally, since I found out I have celiac disease, I have to eat gluten-free—while my husband and son happily devour their bread and donuts. I prepare a shared dish and throw in sides that please everyone.
7. Time-Outs Are Cruel
I grew up with little discipline and viewed time-outs as punishment. However, I soon realized they often provided me with the calm I needed. Now, the tables have turned; my son understands that sometimes Mama needs a timeout too!
8. Bribery Is Just Fine
If a piece of chocolate or a promise of watching a Slugterra episode gets us through a chaotic shopping trip or a round of vaccinations, then I’ll gladly pay that price. Sometimes a little incentive goes a long way.
The only parenting rule I firmly adhere to? Teaching my son the importance of affection. Boys deserve to be cuddled, tickled at bedtime, and reassured with kisses, no matter how late or how many times they ask. After all, they’re only little once!
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Summary: Parenting is a journey filled with unexpected twists, and sometimes the best way to navigate it is by breaking the rules you thought were set in stone. From co-sleeping to the occasional use of formula or even a little bribery, every parent must find what works for their family. The most important rule? Show your children love and affection, because they grow up fast!