I’ve only been a mom for three years but during this time I have learned what things I need to let go of and accept during this season. Thing like always having a messy car and goldfish in my purse, to name a few. But there are somethings I try really hard to make sure I’m doing, especially when it comes to other peoples kids. My top 5 are below, and I’d love it if you kept reading and let me know what else you would add in the comments!
1. Talked Honestly About Their Kids
I know we all think our kids are the greatest humans alive, but can we all just agree that sometimes they can be total punks too? I’m not saying we need to bash on our kids, but can we talk honestly about the tough times? We all know it’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but sometimes it’s easy to think it’s just our own kids that can are acting out, but in reality we all have our struggles and it’s ok to be honest about our kids.
2. Apologize For Their Behavior
Seriously. From one mom to another- I know kids aren’t always going to act like angels. But is it just me, or did parents just quit apologizing for their kids behavior? I mean, I know it’s not your fault that your kid decided to push mine over but is it too hard to throw out a “I’m sorry?” Maybe I apologize too much for my toddler but I’d rather do that then someone think their behavior is acceptable to me.
3. Respect Your Boundaries
Nothing infuriates me more then when other parents ask me if my kids can have candy (insert anything), but give them a treat even if I say no. Especially when they then say jokingly, “don’t tell Mommy.” Not only were my wishes ignored, but you are also teaching them to hide their bad behavior from me. No, that extra candy isn’t going to kill them, but the fact you totally ignored my wishes might.
4. Take Responsibility For Their Own Children
I honestly get so frustrated when I take my children out to a mommy and me class or to the park and there is one kid who is ruining it for the rest of them. I already know how difficult it can be to ask a strong willed toddler to listen during a reading class, but if it gets too crazy we slip out quietly and leave so we don’t ruin it for everyone else. Just the other week I was at a small park and someone else’s kid was sitting at the top of the slide the entire time so no one else could use it, and his parents didn’t do a single thing about it. So please, have a word with your kids so we don’t have to parent them too.