You know you’re among the seasoned moms when you’ve been navigating the school scene longer than some of the newer parents have been on this parenting journey. You find yourself reminiscing about how, back in your day, you’d actually press your forehead against your baby’s to check for a fever—none of this fancy ear thermometer business. You chuckle at the memories of counting fetal kicks, testing milk temperatures by pouring it on your wrist, and using mobile phones solely for talking—only to be met with confused expressions and eye rolls from younger moms. You might think, “Oh no, did I just reveal my age?”
Older moms often embrace traditional methods that might seem outdated to younger parents, who may categorize us as relics, akin to a beloved library book that’s overdue and lost its allure. But don’t be too quick to write off the older mom at school; it’s these women who have cultivated a delightful “I really don’t care” attitude toward judgmental parenting. This is precisely why older moms can be the best friends on your parenting journey.
Here’s Why Older Moms Make Great Friends:
- We don’t care if you had a natural delivery or a C-section. We all know your child will still ask embarrassing questions about your body in the restroom, just as ours did.
- We’re indifferent about whether you chose to breastfeed or bottle-feed. Kids are all quirky on the playground, and you’ll soon find yourself explaining that dirt is not a food group.
- We understand the diaper dilemma. Whether you use cloth or disposables, your child will inevitably announce their need to go just after you’ve left the house.
- We don’t bat an eyelash at your sleep choices. Co-sleeping, controlled sleep, or no sleep at all. Mornings will still start with a foot in your face, demanding to watch the latest Disney classic.
- We don’t judge your weaning methods. By the end of it all, your little one might only want chicken nuggets for every meal, just like ours did.
- We don’t care about your snack choices. Kids will still attempt to lick every surface of a public restroom while you’re busy yelling “stop!”
- We’re not concerned if your five-year-old is still in diapers. You’ll likely be yelling, “Don’t open that door!” while rushing to pull your pants up in a public place.
- We won’t judge your messy home. In a few years, your teenager will be too cool to be seen with you, and you’ll wish for those chaotic days back.
- We don’t care about your child’s early milestones. Once they hit their teenage years, you may not even be allowed to be their Facebook friend.
- We don’t mind if you skipped the shower or threw on yesterday’s clothes. We’ve all been there, and we know it will happen again.
So, next time you see the older mom at school, consider striking up a conversation. She might share amusing anecdotes of parenting without the modern conveniences, but rest assured, she won’t judge you. She’s lived through the chaos and understands that everyone has their struggles.
She’s the kind of friend who won’t hand you judgment; instead, she’ll offer support, whether it’s a listening ear or a bottle of wine and chocolate when you need it most. Older moms know that what truly matters is nurturing our children so they’ll want to call us up when we’re old and gray just to say, “I love you, Mom.” That’s the only thing worth stressing about.
For more parenting insights, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, and if you’re interested in setting up a baby-friendly space, this guide on changing tables might help! You can also explore our other blog post for a deeper dive into the world of home insemination kits.
Summary
Older moms offer a unique perspective in the parenting community, grounded in experience and a refreshing lack of judgment. They understand the chaos of parenting and provide valuable support without the pressure of comparison. It’s these seasoned moms who make the best friends, ready to share their experiences and lend a helping hand.