If there is one thing that parents seem to agree on, it is that life gets harder after kids. Not everyone wants to divulge how much harder it gets exactly, but parents everywhere will admit, it’s not easy. That admission is usually followed, however, by sentiments such as, “But life is so much more fulfilling and meaningful with kids!”. Of course it is….
Many parents will admit that they are unsure if they are good parents, or wonder if they are doing right by heir kids. Why then, do people seem to be so sure about what is right for everyone else’s children?
It seems everyone has something to say about parenting styles, rules, discipline and the myriad other topics parents struggle with. Quite often the people with the most advice don’t even have children themselves.
Many pregnant women report that strangers talk to them and touch them more than ever before. Almost as if they are some sort of public property. Of course, there is some logic to this phenomenon in that when societies feel protective of children and babies they take a certain interest in how they are. And although we can appreciate this when a child is being abused, for instance, it can be strange for a mom just trying to do her best.
It could be that the constant flow of advice from family, as well as strangers, to new parents is simply a well-meaning extension of this protective cultural network. Maybe people are just nosy and opinionated. Whatever the reason, if you are a parent you become accustomed to LOTS of unsolicited advice. And, it would seem, judgement.
Everyone has witnessed the screaming, writhing toddler being dragged out of a grocery store or park. The flustered mother struggling to maintain a grip on the kid, while being yelled at and kicked in the eye.
Often these scenes are met with disapproving looks from “well-behaved” bystanders . Sometimes people make comments about discipline, or even hearken back to the days when, “If I had acted like that, I’d have been spanked.” People also seem to be wondering quietly…..”what kind of mom is she?”
This blog is for parents who are done with advice, and want to begin making informed decisions after considering multiple sides of an issue. Here we will explore common problems and alternative solutions, as well as the mainstream.
So often parents only get mainstream information and ideas about parenting because that is what’s readily available. Also, the “natural” movement can be inimidating because there seem to be so many rules; vegan, no wheat, no sugar, no t.v. What’s a parent to do?
Stay tuned ……..and Welcome!!!!
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