I don’t believe in yelling at my kids. I’m not much of a yeller as is and I don’t think screaming is ever a good way to get a point across. As a mom, I try very hard to lead by example, teach with a kind but firm hand and be create a safe and consistent atmosphere for my kids. Yes, I believe very strongly in all of that, and yet yesterday… sigh, yesterday I lost it y’all.
Upon the girls’ insistence, I agreed to one of those big, bulky kid carts at Whole Foods. They are adorable, but clunky and sort of hellish to push around. Yet, they keep the kids inside. Right? I mean, they have seat belts and steering wheels with beeping horns- what more could a kid want? Apparently to run around like little hooligans, that’s what.
It started with them preferring to get out and walk, which led to 15 boxes of crackers being tossed in my cart in the 10 seconds I took to stop and say hi to a friend. Then they decided climbing on the cart and holding on to the outside while I pushed would be more fun. I wavered back and forth in my head as to whether I should allow it, but while trying to pick my battles, I decided to let it go. I was just making a quick trip after all and if this could buy me 5 more minutes to load up, so be it.
Finally we were heading to the check out line, which happens to be near a display of OPEN CANDY BINS for bulk buying. I love you Whole Foods, but why– whyyyyyyyy do you display candy in the open within grasp of children’s grabby little hands? I did my best to avoid it. We went down a side aisle and headed straight to the checkout line, which unfortunately was a little long at the moment. But like a moth to a flame, before I could park our car cart into checkout #4, Kaitlyn had popped out and was halfway to the candy stand. I get it; she’s not even 2 yet. But then Hailey, my FOUR AND A HALF YEAR OLD, took off and was hot on her heels, giggling like a banshee.
This left me in line, firmly and loudly telling them to get back here now. No dice. When they were out of my view, I had no choice but to abandon my cart and run after them. Kaitlyn had snagged a yogurt-covered pretzel and was halfway through it while Hailey was circling the display trying to decide between chocolate apricots or gummy worms. I snatched Kaitlyn up and grabbed Hailey’s hand. She was in a fit of giggles (irritating me further) and becoming floppier by the second (does anyone else’s kid get floppy??) as I told her to get in the cart and stay there. I held my wiggling toddler under one arm while unloading all the groceries onto the conveyor belt. I looked over and Hailey was out of the cart, messing with all the stuff on the side of the check out line.
I gave her my most stern mom look and hissed in a way that only a mom can do to get. in. the. cart. now. More giggles as she ran off, banging into another shopper’s cart. At this point my eyes were stinging and I’m sure my face was red. Who was this kid?! I could feel people looking and all the assumptions raced through my head. I just knew they all were wondering why I couldn’t control my kids. They undoubtedly were shaking their heads saying that’s what is wrong with kids today. No discipline; no structure.
I paid as fast as I could, apologizing to the clerks and making an awkward joke about how I should have picked up more wine. I just wanted out of there. I wheeled out the oversized beast cart with Hailey whining and trying to escape with half a leg hanging out the side while still having Kaitlyn tucked under my arm.
As I unloaded the groceries into the car, Hailey started screaming and whining about not getting a yogurt covered pretzel like Kaitlyn and how it wasn’t fair. She was climbing over the seats and incessantly whining I want a pretzellllll.. (cry whine)… pretzelllll….
With the three of us inside the car and the doors closed, I lost it. I whipped my head around and screamed at her to buckle up. It was loud. Hailey’s eyes got big. I was so frustrated, embarrassed and at my wits’ end.
I wish I could say that ended Hailey’s meltdown but it just fired her up more.
Disappointed in myself for yelling at her, I switched gears and just resigned myself to silence as Hailey kept yelling at me- bad mom! No ma’am! I will not play with you! Perhaps a little funny sounding in hindsight, but incredibly nerve-grating in the moment.
I had all but tuned her out at this point though, as I was too busy mentally berating myself. Am I raising spoiled rotten kids? What am I doing wrong? How could I let myself lose it like that? Had I scared Kaitlyn? What was wrong with Hailey? Why was she acting like this? Am I a terrible mom? How could I let myself yell like that?
By the time we got home, the car was silent. Hailey had worn herself out and given up trying to get my attention after I refused to engage with her antics. Kaitlyn was happily turning pages in a book, appearing oblivious. I was drained.
And disappointed.
In myself.
This parenting thing is most humbling and eye opening experience. It will highlight your shortcomings in one second and fill your heart with joy the next. It will have you doubt your decisions and abilities. It will have you question if you’re doing it right.
I continued to mentally beat myself up for not handling the situation in a way I was proud of when I finally stopped. I realized I needed a change in perspective. What would I tell a friend if she came to with this same story? Feeling defeated for losing it and yelling at her kids? I undoubtedly would be a lot kinder and more supportive than I was being to myself. Motherhood is tough and we are often our own worst critics.
So instead of continuing to scold myself, I reminded myself that it is supposed to be challenging. Kids are supposed to push; they are learning their boundaries. And it’s OK to mess up. If we are showing up and trying our best, then we are doing just fine. We aren’t supposed to be perfect; we are supposed to be parents.
After quiet time at home for all, Hailey was back to being her sweet self. We had a talk about what happened that ended with hugs. Then we moved on, hopefully both a little wiser, and ready for a fresh start.
My hope is to encourage you today to know you are the best parent possible for your children. Have faith in your decisions and forgive yourself for your mistakes. None of us are perfect, but we get up each day and give it our best. And honestly, showing up consistently, well, that is the best things we can do for our families.
I write more about my firsthand experiences as a mom here.
Have you ever disappointed yourself in the way you handled a situation?
Was it difficult for you to give yourself grace?
Liz @ I Heart Vegetables says
You’re an amazing, Mom, Brittany! I don’t have kids yet but I love reading your blog because in someway, it makes me feel like it’s preparing me for the future 😉 I love that you share your REAL life, and that it’s not all perfect… but it’s worth it 🙂 Thanks for sharing your chaotic Whole Foods experience 😉
Kate says
I try to remind myself that perfection is not what will make my son the person I want him to grow up to. I want him to learn that people make mistakes and that what is important is how we handle these mistakes. That we apologize. That we talk about it. That we forgive. That we work on ourselves. That we do our best.
Cassie says
Gosh, this resonates! I thought I was a patient person, but then I had a baby. Haha.
Brittany Dixon says
I feel like that needs to be on a t-shirt- haha! So true!!
Katharine Newman says
This story reminds me of many times that I was out with family members and similar events occurred with their kids. Every single time I just have to sit there in wonder because I have no clue how I would handle such a situation. Great parents, typically good kids, but apparently most children are unpredictable. From these experiences, I never look down on mom’s who have children misbehaving. I totally see how it’s not indicative of parenting, and hey, at least the parent is spending time with their child! I love that you shared this story, because I am sure so many people can relate. I remember seeing my mom is such a state too many times to count. I’d still say she is the best mom ever!
Emma says
Brittany, I don’t see why you’re disappointed in yourself at all!!! The way you handled yourself was amazing! I would probably start yelling in the store and not have waited till we got to the car…so I was so impressed!! The way you talked to Hailey after shows me how wonderful and patient of a parent you are and how I hope to be one day when I am a mom! How do you start those talks and explain to Hailey everything? so impressed!!! Love your blog!
Brittany Dixon says
Oh Emma, you are kind, but you didn’t see how scary my face looked when I snapped, haha. YIKES!
To answer your question, I always wait until we are both calm, then we talk about our actions. I have her tell me what her actions were and if they were good or bad choices. We talk about what she was feeling when she acted that way. Then I will do the same. I said I was feeling very frustrated and embarrassed. I chose to scream which was not a good choice and I am sorry for acting that way. We say sorry and hug and love yous (it’s all very Full House-ish). It sounds kind of silly, but it is pretty effective for a four year old. And I suppose for a 32 year old too 😉
Carolyn says
oooh, girl! My husband is out of town (it will be a total of nearly two weeks straight on a man trip), I work full time, we have a puppy, and baby chicks…and a 3 year old. I have not always been proud of myself this week but I am doing the best I can and trying to curb behaviors (of mine) that are unproductive to both of us. Good luck and you’re doing great!
Ellen says
From a mama of two young children, thank you for this, SO much. I snapped two weeks ago for the first time and felt horrible. This really resonated with me. Wonderful post.
Jessie, FlusteredMom says
It’s moments like that when I close my eyes and thank the heavens for online grocery shopping. 🙂 How on earth do you get your children to listen without yelling? My children ONLY hear me when I yell. I had their ears checked but all is well – selective hearing.
Brittany Dixon says
You had their ears checked- haha, that is amazing!! The selective hearing thing is crazy, isn’t it?! I find I’m much more effective (or scary maybe?) with my two when I lower my voice. I think it confuses them 😉
Emily @ Perfection Isn't Happy says
You are a great mom! Like someone said above, a lot of parents would scream and make scene in the store. I don’t think you scarred either of your girls by raising your voice, and hopefully they learned their lesson for next time :)!
Lisa Faltenhine says
You are a great mom and such a great post. I can certainly relate. We are all just trying to do the best we can on this crazy journey that is motherhood…and then even when we have a great day we feel mom guilt about something.
Jenny says
As always I love your post. I can totally relate to what you are saying. It’s such an out of control feeling when they aren’t listening. I think my kids show mercy because it’s usually at home when they behave this way. And I too feel like, are you spoiled, are you a brat? What have I done wrong here? I’ve tried low/no sugar, less/no tv, more outside time and running. And somehow, an “episode” like that just happens and they feed off each other. They team up against you!!!! At least they are working together, right? Mine are 5 and almost 2 (this month) and yelling has happended and I hate it. I really do. My mom was a yeller (bless her heart – I totally get it now). And you are so right, the yelling doesn’t stop the behavior. And now my 5 year old will totally say what I have said and I have to hear it back from him. Awful! But parents aren’t given a “to do” book and even having had your daughter 4 years doesn’t mean you’ve had a 4 year old for 4 years. 🙂 From what I read of your blog I know you are a great mom! Someone told me recently that his son is only 3 (almost 4) and he reminds himself that he is 30 and doesn’t know everything so how can he expect his 3 year old to know it. I thought….man that is so true.
And why do they have to put the candy at kid level….near the check out….when your defenses are down?! They need to place the wine at the check out. 🙂
And I love what you said about trying to think about what you’d tell a friend. I often feel like I’m beating myself up but if I had someone telling me what had happened, I wouldn’t say, you are an awful mother! So why do I tell myself that? I hope today is much better!
Brittany Dixon says
Oh my gosh you have me laughing because I’ve actually thought the same thing before– at least they ar teaming up together against me; that’s kind of sweet. Haha! 😉
Thank you so much for your comment <3
Heather @ Life In Leggings says
I loved reading this. I’m not a mother (yet), but I appreciate a look into real life, frustrating situations with little ones. Don’t forget to give yourself some credit — you’re an amazing mom to those sweet girls!
Brynn says
There have been several times that I wish I could have done more, or been more, but there have been 1,000 more times that I have taken deep breaths, kept perspective and given my all to my son. You are right, this parenting thing is no joke. Grace is where it is at.
Cstewart says
Thank you for writing this. Your honesty is really refreshing. Your kind words to mothers brought tears to my tired mama eyes:)
Toni says
ALL toddlers do this In public at some point!!! My kids are now 15 and 12 but I remember these days like it was yesterday. But just know it’s totally normal to get upset and you are a great mom so do not beat yourself up. This too shall pass. 🙂
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma) says
I could imagine that being a very difficult situation. Just remember you’re human and even though you didn’t handle it exactly how you would have liked to you’re still a GREAT mom doing a wonderful job. Just take those quotes to heart.
Kelly says
Oh did this resonate with me today. My 19 month old is testing my patience more and more these days. There is a book called Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline that I found had some good techniques. Given what you have written about in the past I think you probably already use a lot of them. And when all else fails there is online grocery shopping for the win.
Kathy says
We’ve all been there one time or another! You did just fine! 🙂 Important thing is after you got home and everyone refreshed, you talked, you hugged and you moved on with your day without dwelling on it and staying upset about it. As parents we live and learn just as the kids do. 🙂
Have a wonderful sunshiny day today!!!
Christina says
Oy, been there with my 4 year old as well! We went to Ikea recently, and all was going well until I decided to grab a shopping cart halfway through the store to carry all our stuff. My daughter INSISTED on pushing the cart herself, screaming “I can do it by myself Mommy!” when I tried (unsuccessfully) to keep her from crashing the giant cart into people and things. I lost my cool, got down on her level, grabbed her hands firmly and scolded her. I felt like there were a million pairs of eyes on me from others in the store, either judging me for scolding her or judging me for not controlling her more. Ugh! Not my proudest parenting moment.
Heather says
I’d like to say I never have these moments, but truthfully? I have these moments way more often than I’d like. I struggle with it and during times of stress, both my husband and I tend to have little patience and I think our kids pick up on this and tend to act out more. Since I know I can’t undo what has been done when I lose my cool, I make sure we each have space and more than anything I make sure I talk to my son after a major Blow Up. I explain that I lost my temper and I shouldn’t have yelled, but we also talk about how he acted too. We’re cut from the same cloth, he and I. We get overwhelmed easily and our moods can turn on a dime and I have to show him that it is possible to take a breath and stay calm. Most importantly, I always make sure he knows I love him no matter what.
Courtney @ Sweet Tooth, Sweet Life says
Oh my gosh, yes. All the time! I think any mom who says they’ve never lost it is totally kidding herself. We all get pushed to the limit and, sometimes, our actions wind up being less than stellar. We’re human! But the mere fact that we sit and ponder/worry/analyze it over and over once it’s done is proof that we do sincerely care. We’re just trying our best…at THE hardest job ever, if you ask me! 🙂
Elizabeth says
This is exactly why I make them ride in the cart. No exceptions. I know it can sound mean and strict but I can’t handle that behavior & that’s what they will do. When you’re in public there are all kinds of dangers & strangers that could snatch them up.
I admire you for not yelling at them often. I unfortunately feel like I lose my $hit every other day. It’s not easy being a parent!! Thanks for your honesty!!!! We all have similar struggles.
Do you spank your kids? If not, what do you do?
Brittany Dixon says
Teach me your ways to keep them in the cart! Well, I guess putting my foot down would be a start 😉
We don’t spank, but we yank privileges like there is no tomorrow. I don’t want to exaggerate because on the whole they are pretty well behaved, but if they speak to me disrespectfully (my pet peeve) or act out, then I start taking stuff from their rooms. Well, really just Hailey (4 1/2) since Kaitlyn can’t conceptualize that yet. I’ll take her clock and a toy at a time until the lesson sinks in, then she has the opportunity to earn them back through better choices.
Laura says
My daughter would only stay in the kid cart about halfway through the store, then she wanted to get out and run around while giggling. And when she *was* in the cart, her little hands were grabbing things I had no idea about, so when we got to the register, she had all sorts of things in the “cab” with her. Honestly, I either went shopping alone or had my husband come along to be the kid chaser. I know that’s not an option for everyone.
jerrica says
oh yes, I am going to share this gem of a story with you. About 2 months ago, my daughter (4) spent a week in just her finest form ever. One of those mornings we got up to take my son to school. She spent the entire car ride screaming and yelling about something but eventually calmed down. When we got to school, I got everyone out and put their coats on, grabbed bags and lunchboxes and away we went. She made it half way down the sidewalk before she threw herself onto the ground screaming because it wasn’t the right coat. IT JUST WASNT RIGHT. My hands were full and we were late and I had been up with her since 5 am. I was already at my wits end. I picked her up with that spare arm we find sometimes, you know, the one that comes out of your armpit and bicep area. I carried her briefly until she calmed down. I put her down and we started walking again. We get through the gate to school and she starts wailing again. So.Loud. This time it is because her coat isn’t zipped correctly. What does that even mean?!! She unzipped it and started screaming at me to zip her coat. Oh man was I red hot. I handed my son his bags and asked him so kindly if he could start walking to class. I grabbed a hold of her by the arm and stood her up and forcefully lead her. She kept cry-yelling about zipping her coat and finally I stopped and said I will not be zipping your coat because you have not used your manners yet this morning! I was so angry and my tone was very unpleasant. So, long story short, the assistant principal parked by us and had witnessed every single moment from the time we got out of the car. We had never met him before and so he FOLLOWED us to my sons classroom. When we got there, he asked if everything was alright and what the problem was-in front of my sons teacher. I was SO MORTIFIED. Like. You don’t even know. I was oblivious that he was watching and although I think I did a good job of completely losing my shit, he obviously did not agree. I looked at the teacher, said “sorry we are late, rough morning”. She chuckled and that was that. we made it back to the car and I just started crying. I called my husband and told him even the principal thinks I am the worst parent ever!
If I see someones kid having a meltdown in public, I always try to give the adult a smile or a nod or something. It is horrible to have someone ask if they can help or give you a snarky comment about your parenting but a little smile lets them know you understand. It is like a little glimpse of hope from one parent to the next. I have had it done to me and it really helps to know, in that moment, that it isn’t just you.
Julie says
Shame on that principal! I always try to give a conspiratorial wink or smile or even make a joke when I see another parent struggling w/ a loud, uncooperative kid in public because we have ALL been there! And it doesn’t reflect on our parenting skills; kids are unpredictable. But it can be SO embarrassing, & you always feel like everyone is staring & judging.
Amy says
Thank you for your honesty! I have definitely been in those situations where I handle my kids in a way that leaves me feeling awful. But kids are quick to forgive and show us grace, so we have to forgive ourselves and show ourselves grace as well. Parenting is hard and challenging for sure! I think you are doing a wonderful job! Every kid has their moments no matter what…just like we do!
Lauren @ Oh Hey! I Like That! says
While I have yet to be a mom, when I was a teacher, I would constantly berate myself for yelling at the students when they got to the point where NOTHING ELSE was getting them quiet. But the thing is, we’re all human and can only do what we can do. You’re an awesome mama, and don’t you forget that!
Kelly says
My mom probably yelled at us a handful of times. And I really only remember it happening once. But it’s stuck with me. I think I’ll always remember it because it reminds me that we were difficult and we tried her patience and that she’s only human. It also reminds me that because I only remember it happening once, that I can be strong too and strive to have as much patience as she did with my own kids. It doesn’t mean I won’t mess up and yell, I’m much more of a yeller than she was, but it gives me a goal to strive for.
AnnaB says
I have a toddler (21 months) and 6ish months pregnant. Maybe it’s the hormones, but I can’t deal with toddler tantrums and fits some days. My husband has been traveling A LOT over the last year and while my son and I have grown close I struggle with handling my anger when he won’t listen. I don’t spank him, but I do yell. I beat myself up just like you did in your post. Parenting is the most humbling thing I’ve ever done. Sometimes I go out online and research toddler tantrums and fits/hitting etc. so I can reassure myself my son is normal. I really want to lead by example and I don’t want my son to yell back at me or anyone else. See still beating myself up 🙂
Julie says
Ha ha I thought you showed great restraint! I have totally been that parent (we all have) w/ a LOUD naughty child running around the grocery store… I’m impressed you made it to the car before losing your sh*t. 😉 And yes, I had a few not-so-stellar parenting moments when my daughter was younger (she’s 16 now) where I was sure I’d scarred her for life because I didn’t keep my cool, but she has absolutely no memory of them (as I’m sure Hailey & Kaitlyn won’t of this instance! Or next time… 😉 I still shudder when I recall the time when she was somewhere between Kaitlyn & Hailey’s ages, & we were at home & it had been one of those days, & she was throwing a “wild animal” tantrum, & I just couldn’t take it anymore so I literally threw her in her room & held the door shut! Gasp! Yep, no memory of it. 😛
Jen says
Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you….
You are a great mom….
Liz says
Goodness, we’ve all been there! One particular time I remember my daughter was 22 months and our son was a month old. We were trying to leave the mall and the baby was crying because he was hungry. I nursed him in the backseat of the van while my husband buckled in the toddler, but she was NOT having it and just started screaming uncontrollably. That went on the entire time I was trying to nurse the fussy, crying baby. By the time I got him into his seat I was so done!! I looked right at my daughter and just started screaming “AHHH” as loud as I could. Not my finest moment!!! The way my husband looked at me after I snapped was mortifying. I try so hard not to yell as well, but I can guarantee you I would have yelled in the car too just like you did after all that. You are doing a great job!!
Ashley D says
I feel like I am constantly disappointing myself lately in how I deal with my 3.5 year old son. My husband has been gone a lot recently, I work 40 hours a week, spend 2 hours a day in the car, and am 22 weeks pregnant. It’s no excuse, but sometimes I just don’t have the patience for the amount he is pushing his limits right now. I always immediately regret it and talk to him about how I handled the situation. Luckily, he much more easily forgives me than I forgive myself. I’m constantly trying to be a better mom and I hope when he looks back at his childhood he sees that I tried my best, despite my faults. I’m glad to know I’m not alone in this!
Marci Gilbert says
Sounds like a normal day in my life! I am very stern with our 4 year old and find myself raising my voice more than I like, but I feel it’s the only way he actually hears me. I also think when I’m not stern, he ignores me. I hate doing it in public, but then think people expect moms to reign in their kids–grocery, park, gym class, etc. It’s hard to watch and I feel the eyes on me. I had a playdate just Sunday with a school friend and his dad and I was very stern (not yelling, but counting, giving choices, how he wasn’t being friendly) about sharing a toy and the father praised me for being so tough. I didn’t think it was praiseworthy and then felt bad for being tough. Should I have turned a blind eye and let the kids figure it out themselves resulting in hurt feelings? Parenting is tough.
Megan says
I’m impressed that you’ve managed to grocery shop with two little ones for the past 2 years without more incidents! I find it hard with just one. I can definitely empathize though. It’s not the same, but right now I’m pregnant with my second and feeling sooo crappy. Some days, my daughter will watch TV basically all day. I cry because I’m doubled over with nausea, but also because I feel like a horrible mother. I know it’s temporary, but it’s those moments that overshadow all our great moments as parents.
Jamie says
LOVED this story. We have ALL been there! Being a parent is the hardest job in the world.
Gcroft says
Beaming over a big hug and a bottle of red wine over x
Alise says
Oh, man… This happened to me last week. I felt so awful. O’s eyes got huge and she said, “I don’t LIKE that loud voice you are using, Mommy!” and then burst into tears. I felt like doing the same. There’s something about the older sibling setting a rotten example when they KNOW better that gets under my skin like nothing else. Trying to remember in the frustrating moments since how awful I felt afterwards.
Erint says
Hugs to you momma. I rarely comment but love this space you create here with your honesty. But man can I relate to this. I have four kids 6 and under and sometimes the testing and the stress and the situations just cause you to snap. It’s always in the worst situations too, at least for me, and more frequently than not I’m just trying to get to a place where we can all calm down before addressing the situation. But I like to think that it’s another way I’m helping them by showing them that I make mistakes and I say I’m sorry and that we try our best but love each other and forgive each other even if we make mistakes. Because I’m not perfect and shouldn’t expect them to be. But man it is hard sometimes to walk through that path. Stay strong momma. You are doing an amazing job with those beautiful girls and luckily for all of us, tomorrow is always a new day. Xoxo
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you so much for your kind words! I love and fully agree with your point about it being important to be able to show them that everyone makes mistakes and how to say sorry. Such a great perspective! <3
Tara says
Soo needed this today! My 22 month old is in the middle of a whining sun up to sun down stage and my 6 month old still doesn’t believe in naps. I feel like I am constantly wondering what I’m doing wrong or if I’m a good mom.
Naomi says
Ummm, I was that toddler!! On a regular basis I screamed blue murder and would start stripping off my clothes in the supermarket….when my mum would walk to the next aisle I would scoot along in my nappy on the floor still screaming. I’m not sure now what I used to scream about to be honest! My poor, poor mum! It was so legendary that even now, at 30 years old (and pregnant with my first) when I meet people in our old town they say ‘oh yes, I remember you!’. Cue much embarrassment and feet shuffling on my part. You’re all wonderful mums and just know that it’ll be okay and though that moment may be long it won’t stick around forever!
Melissa says
We call make mistakes. Looking for the bright side, at least when we’ve messed up with our kids, it is an opportunity to show them what a sincere apology looks like. A chance to talk through how the whole situation, expectations for them in the future and expectations for ourselves.
Parita says
Don’t be so hard on yourself, B! As the comments above prove, I’m sure every mom goes through this at some point. I think the way you handled it (especially after the fact) is amazing.
I think (in my little ideal bubble) that any store that offers its customers a cart should make it mandatory for kids to sit in it…with seat belts. How great would that be?!
Emily says
Hi Brittany! Long time reader but first time I’ve commented … Just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed this post and how real you are. I have had so many days and moments like this and it helps to know we aren’t alone. Plus I love that Jodi picoult quote. So perfect and true. I really respect and admire you and think you’re doing an amazing job and your love for your family always shines through.
Emily
Mona says
I don’t have kids myself, though my workplace involves a lot of them! Regardless, I’ve been reading your blog for a long time and you’re a wonderful mum. Kids will challenge you and they’re also at an age that comes with this! Don’t be too hard on yourself, you’re doing great 🙂
Whitney says
Thank you for writing so honestly about something that happens to all parents but is not often talked about openly.
Parenting.is.hard. Being a kid.is.hard.
I’m slowly learning that changing perspective is a hugely important parenting and self-care tool. I’m glad you eased up on yourself when you started thinking from a friend perspective.
I think you would probably like books/podcasts about parenting from Janet Lansbury. http://www.janetlansbury.com/podcasts/
She’s all about firm and gentle parenting which centers around the parent being a strong leader for the child. I really like one podcast where she tackles getting physical with your kids (like to remove them from a non-danger situation such as yogurt covered pretzels).
Your a good mom and you have good kids. Thank you for sharing your life with the us!
I hope your Thursday is full of hugs and smiles 🙂
Lauren Brennan says
Oh man. I needed to read this today. I have been feeling like a failure as a mommy lately, questioning everything I do and if it’s the “right” way. But I do believe it’s an invaluable lesson for both me and my kids when I go to them to say sorry. They know that I’m not perfect and don’t claim to be, and hopefully they learn humility, to be contrite and admit when they’re wrong, to seek forgiveness.
We’re all doing the best we can, am I right?!