Most kids, no matter their situation, tend to believe they have it particularly tough. One moment they’re excitedly thanking me for the latest Lego set, and the next they’re eyeing the bigger, shinier model that the neighbor’s kid has. It’s like little ones have an innate talent for making comparisons that drive parents up the wall.
Honestly, we adults compare ourselves enough without our children highlighting how we fall short. My three kids regularly remind me how their friends seem to have it better—more freedom, later curfews, and more allowances. They seem to think it’s their duty to point out my so-called flaws.
But the real kicker is when they claim I’m the strictest mom in the universe. “You’re way stricter than any of our friends’ moms!” my son declared recently. I suspect he thinks I’ll relent on a few rules, but that’s not going to happen.
I’m not convinced I’m the strictest mom out there, and they can try to make me feel like a joy-sucker all they want. The truth is, if I have more rules than their friends’ moms, I genuinely don’t care. If I happen to be the chillest mom in the area, that’s fine too. What matters to me is that I’m raising my kids in a way that aligns with my values.
They can label me the “mean mom” and stomp off to their rooms in a huff, maybe even skipping dinner in protest. But none of that bothers me as much as the thought of compromising my parenting style just to keep up with someone else’s standards.
If I began bending to their demands just because another kid gets to do something, this household would descend into chaos. Sure, I listen to my children and let them have a say, but I refuse to let them dictate the rules.
I did not sign up for motherhood to gain more friends; I wanted a family. My goal is to raise decent, kind humans, and that requires some boundaries. I won’t allow my teenage son to set his own curfew or dictate where he spends the night. Nor will I change my mind about him keeping his bedroom door open while he hangs out with his new girlfriend, even if “All my friends are allowed to, Mom!” Sure, I bet they are—I’d gladly chat with their moms to find out what they really think.
And my tween daughter? She’s not getting a $60 body piercing just because her friends are doing it as a sign of friendship. I have my reservations about numerous things my kids bring up, and as their mother and role model, it’s my duty to listen, provide input, and stand firm. I’m free to veto any request I choose.
If I let them take control, this place would be a total madhouse. I do allow them plenty of freedom while still maintaining my authority, because they are not in charge of me.
I’m unapologetically the “strict mom,” and I can handle the label. My kids are doing just fine without the freedom to make their own rules. They’re healthy, happy, and thriving. I can guarantee that when they turn 18 and can take the reins of their own lives, I’ll be receiving a flurry of calls and texts asking, “Mom, what should I do?”
For more insights on family dynamics and parenting, check out this article on home insemination kits at Make a Mom. And if you’re seeking more information about pregnancy, visit NICHD, they offer excellent resources on the subject.
In summary, I might be labeled as the strict mom, but my priority is to raise my kids in a way that feels right to me. Their happiness and well-being are what truly matter, and I’ll stick to my principles no matter the comparisons they make.