I never set out to appear as an unfit mother. I wake up each day with the intent of nurturing my children, not sabotaging their well-being. However, after scrolling through countless parenting forums, I feel like I’m a seasoned warrior in the never-ending mommy wars. It seems that if I don’t meet every standard perfectly, I’m deemed unworthy of my children. But here’s the reality: my so-called “failings” are just typical mom things. I often worry about being judged by real people, not just online commentators. While I should embrace my parenting choices, I can’t help but feel the weight of judgment sometimes. Here are nine things I do that might raise some eyebrows:
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Your Assessment of My Kids’ Faces
Sure, my children can end up with remnants of peanut butter or chocolate milk smeared around their mouths. I fully intended to clean them up; life just got in the way. Between finding lost shoes or dealing with a 3-year-old’s spontaneous flower-picking spree, I may forget to wipe their faces until we arrive at Target. They might look a bit scruffy, but I assure you, they’re well-loved and cared for. -
The Target Aisle Dash
If you think my kids are running wild, remember that it’s normal for them to be excited. They’re just exploring their surroundings, even if it involves a minor meltdown over a toy they can’t have. I know how it looks, but I promise you, this is all part of their development. I don’t need assistance; this is just how we roll at Target. -
Bathroom Independence
My 7-year-old is quite capable of taking his 5-year-old brother to the restroom. However, the store’s constant reminders about keeping kids close send me into a panic. “What’s ‘bitch’?” my son innocently asked after I explained the rules to him. Ugh, parenting is hard. -
A Quick Stop at the Gas Station
When I need to refuel, I’m not about to unbuckle three car seats just to pay for gas. Instead, I make sure the car is locked, parked in the shade, and keep a watchful eye on them through the window. It’s only for a minute, but I still worry about judgment from onlookers, even though it’s perfectly legal where I live. -
Fashion Choices Under Scrutiny
My youngest adores his Zootopia shirt, even if it has puffy sleeves meant for girls. And my middle son? His tight purple shirt featuring superheroes is a bit of a fashion disaster paired with plaid pants. You might think he dressed himself, but I assure you, he didn’t. Judge if you must. -
Rugrat Battle Scars
My 3-year-old has had his fair share of tumbles, resulting in a bumpy forehead, a nose scrape, and a self-applied Band-Aid that’s now covering his nostrils. Though it may look alarming, he’s perfectly fine, and those marks are just a testament to his adventurous spirit. -
Yelling in Public
Only the baby rides in the cart while my older two zoom around like tiny tornadoes. I find myself yelling reminders to keep their hands off the shelves and stop chasing each other. You might think I’m a mean mom, but trust me, I’m just trying to keep them from causing chaos. -
Questionable Meal Choices
Sometimes, my kids’ meals consist of snacks. I’ve been known to serve them microwave pancakes with syrup for lunch or let them indulge in fast-food fries. I know this isn’t gourmet parenting, but at least they’re eating, right? -
Peeing in Nature
When my 3-year-old urgently needs to relieve himself and there’s no bathroom in sight, I let him go behind a tree. Yes, he may drop his pants entirely, but it’s better than risking an accident. I make my 5-year-old wait, much to his dismay, so judge away if you must.
I understand that judgment is inevitable in parenting. It’s not about my insecurities, but rather a reality I’ve come to accept. However, I know I’m a great mom. My kids eat healthily, engage in creative activities, and enjoy outings to museums and parks. Yes, there will always be something to critique, but I refuse to let it change how I raise my happy children.
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