As a parent, I’ve noticed that my children often receive a variety of items from well-meaning friends, family, and even neighbors. While I appreciate the generosity, there are certain things that really need to stop being handed to my kids. Here’s a list of five of those things:
1. Stickers
Listen, I understand that stickers can bring joy, especially at a doctor’s office. But do you ever consider where all those Spiderman and unicorn stickers end up? I’ll tell you: they end up on my van windows. In the summer heat, they become a permanent fixture, and I’m left with unsightly blobs that look like abstract art gone wrong. They find their way onto my dining table or, worse, my child’s shirt. If I forget to check before the laundry, they morph into a sticky disaster that’s nearly impossible to remove. So please, for the sake of my sanity, think twice before giving out stickers.
2. Party Bags Filled with Junk
I get it; themed goody bags are adorable. But let’s be honest: those cheap toys are a nightmare. You know the ones—those flimsy parachute soldiers that get tangled within minutes, or the shrill sound of a plastic kazoo that only brings chaos. You’ve witnessed the chaos firsthand. So why continue to hand out these items? We all know they just end up in the trash or tangled in a toy box. Let’s break this cycle of party favors that nobody wants!
3. Cheetos
I love Cheetos—who doesn’t? But when my kids eat them, their tiny hands end up bright orange. Suddenly, my van, their shirts, and my furniture look like they’ve been dusted for fingerprints. One little bag turns my home into a cheesy crime scene. And if they lick their fingers? Don’t even get me started on the cheese-scented residue that’s impossible to clean without a miracle cleaner and a lot of patience.
4. Your Old, Broken Toys
How many times have I been at a friend’s house when my child takes a liking to a battered old toy? And then comes the dreaded phrase, “Oh, you can have it!” Thanks, but no thanks. I already have enough broken toys cluttering my home. It feels like a game of hot potato, with parents passing off their unwanted items. Instead of offloading your broken toys, let’s just agree that it’s better to throw them away.
5. Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals seem to breed at an alarming rate. I get it; you’re looking to declutter your space. But please, don’t send them my way. They take over my home, and some of them come with a distinct odor that can only be described as “mystery funk.” I don’t need more sticky, smelly toys cluttering up my life. Giving your stuffed animals to my kids is not a kind gesture; it’s just passing off your problems.
I’m sure many parents can relate to this list, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they have their own additions. If you’re among those who enjoy stickers on your car or smelly stuffed animals, feel free to reach out—I may have a package just for you! If you’re interested in more parenting tips, check out this informative post here. And if you’re looking for at-home insemination solutions, I recommend checking out Make a Mom for their quality kits. Also, for further insights into pregnancy and home insemination, visit CCRM IVF.
In summary, while generosity is appreciated, some items simply don’t belong in my home. Let’s unite to keep our spaces clutter-free and make parenting just a little easier.
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