Being a parent is really one the toughest job we will ever do, but the most rewarding. Those long sleepless nights during the newborn stage, temper tantrums, potty training, and the list goes on(imagine all those things times two!). But watching your child grow and reach milestones is truly rewarding! Taking their first step, hearing them say, "I love you" for the first time, watching learn to ride their bike, going to kindergarten. The highs are certainly high, and the lows can be pretty rough on a parent. Just know at the end of the day, you are a great parent and don't beat yourself up. I have some ways to know you are a good parent below.
No matter how many parenting books you read, it takes learning as you go. Every child is so different, and you have to learn what techniques of teaching works best to teach your child along the way. I am sure you have mastered this parenting so much better than you are giving yourself credit for! Don't believe me? See if you can check some of these items off, to see for yourself that you are a good parent.
You have rocked your screaming baby to sleep because they were needing to be comforted in the middle of the night.
You provide meals for your child every day, whether it is home cooked or fast food, it fuels their body.
Taking the time to sit and play with your child or reading them a book for the tenth time in the row (even if you skipped pages😊).
Shared laughs or giggles on whatever your child thought was funny.
Disciplined them when they were acting out. Teaching your child how to act properly is so important in good parenting.
Helping them learn life skills so when they leave home one day they are prepared.
You have stayed up past your bedtime baking treats for their school party the next day or helped with their school project.
Having set limits and a routine so your child knows what they can and can't do.
You can't remember your life before they existed.
You take pride in your child's success. From simple milestones to awards they win, and more.
Some things are beyond your control, and no matter what happens you simply love your child.
You take the time to comfort them if they are sad, make them smile and just love them.
Accepting your child for who they are.
You kiss away boo-boos better than any band-aid ever would.
You have learned (or learning) patience on getting out the door, having your child help, etc.
Allowing your child to learn and grow even though it would be faster if you just did the task at hand.
You question your decisions, that means you are truly caring about the well-being of your child.
You take them to the doctor when they are sick, and care for them.
Constantly taking your child back and forth to school, practice, etc.
Putting your child's needs before yourself.
You listen to your child when they need you.
Taking the time to simply enjoy life with them.
Even when life is hectic, you take time to just be with them if they need you.
Make sure they are bathed and dressed each day.
You have watched more cartoons than you probably would love to admit.
That protective mama bear instinct kicks in when anyone hurts your child.
You know that you would die to protect your child from any harm.
When they are sick you would rather be sick because you hate seeing them hurt.
You feel their highs and lows in life, and it pulls at your heart if they are down.
You aim to be a friend for them, but ultimately their mom/dad.
Turn on their style of music and listen to their favorite song.
You would give them the last bite of your favorite snack or chocolate if they wanted it.
You have had random dance parties just to watch your child laugh and giggle and dance away.
You teach them to be kind to everyone no matter what their differences may be.
Helping them to remember to give to others and always volunteer if you are in need.
You do your best to keep them safe and happy each and every day.
Taking the time to let them know and see they are loved each day.
So, I hope you are convinced that you good parent, no you are amazing! Share this with mom or dad who needs to see the simple things that make them a good parent amidst the chaos.
I have a toddler and today was a tough one. This was a great list to read to change my mood. Thank you!
I glad this made your mood change. Parenting is hard but is has both good and bad days.
These re so true! And a great way to think about some of those hard, but sweet moments. It truly is hard to remember life before kids!
I don't have kids yet but after reading this I'm pretty sure I have the best parents!
I love the giggling. It is so important to laugh at what they think is funny so they learn to have a sense of humor in life!