I want to take a moment to extend my sincerest apologies.
For every instance I uttered, “Little kids, little problems; big kids, big problems.” For each time I reassured a parent eagerly awaiting their child’s first steps with, “It’s harder when they start to move.” For those moments when I brushed aside a parent’s struggles with a nonchalant, “I wish I didn’t have to hear ‘Mom-Mom-Mom’ all day long.” For the times I told a sleep-deprived parent, “Just wait until they can climb out of their toddler bed.” For every comment to a potty-training parent wishing for the days of diapers again. For the kindergarten parent with a clingy child, “I wish my problems were as simple as needing a nap.” For every time someone shared their challenges, and I unintentionally belittled their experience, I am truly sorry.
Because that is not what support should look like.
I remember a photo of my son, Ethan, taken when he was just a month old. He was incredibly small, and yet the challenges of those early days felt monumental. Each time someone told me things would only become more difficult, a part of me felt deflated.
Recently, I was part of a conversation where a fellow parent shared their struggle. Some nodded sympathetically, while others expressed their own experiences, offered advice, and provided genuine support. That’s what community looks like.
Let’s Change Our Mindset
So here’s my plea: let’s abandon the “little kids, little problems; big kids, big problems” mindset. Let’s stop minimizing each other’s parenting hurdles just because we’ve faced them ourselves and our current challenges seem more formidable. Let’s refrain from one-upping each other with tales of hardship. And please, let’s not tell those grappling with difficulties that they’re doing it wrong—because simply moving forward amidst chaos is tough enough.
Parenting is undeniably challenging. It’s filled with joyous moments, yet equally fraught with difficulties. Some days, it feels like a complete whirlwind, and other days it might even involve a literal mess. Let’s commit to helping one another navigate these storms. Let’s listen, support, and truly uplift each other.
I’ve experienced both the tiny challenges of having little ones and the evolving complexities of older kids. Before long, they will transition into teenagers and adults. While I cannot predict what those years will entail, I know firsthand that sometimes what may appear as “little problems” can feel immense, and vice versa. Hard is hard, and good is good; it’s all relative.
Regardless of whether you have toddlers or teens, my wish for you remains the same: may your days be filled with more joy than challenges.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more insights on parenthood, check out our other blog post about the best home insemination kits. Also, for those interested in understanding more about pregnancy, this is an excellent resource. And for a refreshing take on wellness, you can explore summer superfood refreshers.
In Summary
Let’s commit to being the support system we all need, embracing the challenges of parenting without judgment.