By: Lila Thompson
Updated: Jan. 5, 2016
Originally Published: Sep. 16, 2015
The idea of being an ideal parent is simple—until you actually step into that role. It’s easy to have all the answers and a master plan for every scenario until your little one decides to unleash a monumental tantrum in the middle of a grocery store. In those moments, you find yourself wishing you could take back all those judgmental remarks you made before having kids, like “My child would never (insert your choice of behavior here).” Spoiler alert: they will. And then some.
Reality has a way of humbling us all as we transition into parenthood. The picture-perfect vision we had for our parenting journey often diverges wildly from reality. Here are five ways we’ve found ourselves parenting differently than we’d anticipated:
1. Screen Time
Before kids: We envisioned a no-screen policy, strictly adhering to the pediatrician’s guidelines for age-appropriate media consumption. Our little geniuses would thrive on creative activities and piles of storybooks without ever asking for screen time.
After kids: Screen time has become our secret weapon for getting things done—be it breakfast, laundry, or that much-needed solo bathroom break. Whether we’re in a waiting room or on a long drive, sometimes a little screen time is just what the doctor ordered.
2. Food Choices
Before kids: We were adamant that our little ones would only consume organic, unprocessed foods. We’d whip up homemade baby food from the organic garden we’d lovingly tend to, and their lunches would be meticulously crafted masterpieces.
After kids: Well, they may have picked the lettuce and tomato off their burger, but hey, pickles are vegetables, right? And who could forget those mashed potatoes they devoured last night before diving headfirst into dessert?
3. Behavior Expectations
Before kids: We were certain our children would exhibit impeccable manners and never forget to say “please” and “thank you.” Shopping trips would be smooth sailing, with no begging or climbing on furniture.
After kids: We find ourselves justifying their behavior with, “They must be tired,” as they climb the shelves in the store.
4. TV Time
Before kids: Our tiny Einsteins would never be caught mindlessly glued to the television. We’d ensure their screen time was solely dedicated to enriching educational content.
After kids: Another episode of their favorite cartoon? Sure, why not.
5. Grooming Habits
Before kids: Our little ones would always be dressed in stylish, clean outfits—no character t-shirts or mismatched socks on our watch.
After kids: A quick thumb wipe will do, and we’re off to the store in whatever they decided to wear—Batman costume and all.
The road to parenthood may be lined with good intentions, but practicality often trumps perfection. None of us emerge as the parents we once imagined we would be—and that’s perfectly fine. When our kids grow up, they won’t remember if their meals were homemade or how much screen time they had; they’ll be too busy critiquing their own parenting choices until they face the same realities!
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Summary:
Parenthood often looks different than we expect. From screen time to food choices, behavior, TV habits, and grooming, our ideals frequently give way to reality. As we navigate the challenges of raising kids, it’s clear that our parenting styles evolve—and that’s okay. Ultimately, our children will grow up with memories of us that matter far more than the details of our parenting decisions.
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