As a mom of two wonderfully mischievous girls aged 4 and 6, I’ve learned that parenting is a bit like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube that’s fighting back. It’s a joyful, beautiful mess, and some days, it’s just a mess. To help you survive (and thrive!) through these years, I’ve compiled a list of tips. Buckle up, fellow moms, it’s going to be a wild ride!
1. Embrace the Chaos
Your home will look like a toy bomb exploded in it. And guess what? That’s okay. I’ve considered changing my address to “1234 Legoland Street” more times than I can count.
Tip: Lower your cleanliness expectations. Aim for ‘survivable’ instead of ‘spotless.’ Your sanity will thank you.
2. Master the Art of Distraction
Kids argue. A lot. “She’s looking at me funny,” “She’s breathing my air,” – sound familiar? Congratulations, you’ve officially entered the sibling squabble zone!
Tip: Channel your inner magician and learn the art of distraction. Quick, point to a bird outside the window, or ask a random question like, “Do unicorns like ice cream?” Works every time.
3. Snack Attack
Did you know that kids are essentially snack-sized food black holes? They’ll eat you out of house and home and still ask, “What’s for dinner?”
Tip: Keep a stash of healthy snacks handy. Or if it’s one of those days, remember, there’s no shame in resorting to bribery with cookies. We’ve all been there.
4. Sleep is for the Weak
Who needs sleep when you could be up at 3 AM discussing why we can’t have ice cream for breakfast or why we can’t adopt a unicorn?
Tip: Invest in a good coffee machine. Coffee: because adulting is hard. Also, practice the phrase, “Mommy is not available right now. Please leave a message after the beep.”
5. Say Goodbye to Privacy
Remember those days when you could use the bathroom in peace? Neither do I.
Tip: Savor those rare moments of solitude, even if it’s just a trip to the grocery store alone. It’s practically a vacation!
6. Always Expect the Unexpected
You’ll find things in your purse you never thought you’d carry. A half-eaten lollipop, a toy dinosaur, a collection of shiny rocks – it’s like a tiny, bizarre museum in there.
Tip: Always have wipes and hand sanitizer at the ready. You never know when you’ll have to clean up a ‘mystery mess’.
7. Embrace Your Inner Child
Kids have a magical way of making you see the world differently. Mud can become chocolate cake, and a cardboard box can transform into a castle.
Tip: Join in their silliness. Wear the tiara, have a tea party with stuffed animals, or stomp in the puddles. These are the moments you’ll remember.
8. Love the Sound of Your Own Name
“Moooom, Moooom, MOOOOOM!” You’ll hear your name so often you’ll wonder if it’s the only word in their vocabulary.
Tip: Pretend you’re in a rock concert, and that’s your adoring audience calling your name. Rock on, superstar!
9. Practice Selective Hearing
For your sanity’s sake, you’ll have to become an expert in selective hearing.
Tip: Perfect the art of nodding and saying “uh-huh” without actually registering the entire plot of the latest cartoon episode. Trust me, this skill is a lifesaver.
10. Enjoy the Ride
Parenting is like a roller coaster ride. It’s thrilling, scary, and sometimes you feel a little sick. But at the end of the day, it’s the most rewarding ride of your life.Tip: Soak in the good moments and remember, this too shall pass – usually like a kidney stone, but it will pass!
In conclusion, buckle up, enjoy the ride, and remember – you’re doing an amazing job. And when all else fails, there’s always coffee and cookies. Please add any tips that have helped you in motherhood in the comment section for other readers!
I am a wife, teacher, and mother to two awesome girls. I write about what I am passionate about, which includes being a mom, house projects, beauty and skincare. I love to share my experiences, failures, and successes with my readers. Let this space be a resource for you to pursue your very best day.