At Monday's meeting we welcomed a panel of veteran moms* willing to share their expertise with us! My hand was cramping trying to write it all down for you-- there was so much wisdom at that table. So forgive me for anything that gets left out, but I want to record some of the thoughts that were shared with us in case our mommy brains need some help.
- Don't listen to the parenting "noise". Trust your instincts. You know what's best for your family.
- Enjoy your kids! Let the rest go.
- No one cares if your house is messy.
- Actually, some people might, but people who compete with you (about your house, your clothes, your kids) don't need to be your friend.
- Build a network of supportive people in your life.
- Invite people over even if your house is messy!
- Every minute of a kid's birthday party doesn't need to be filled with activities!
- One tip for reigning in Christmas excess: Santa gets his Christmas magic from Jesus, so 3 wise men = 3 gifts.
- As they get older (later elementary school age), keep them involved in activities-- sports, music lessons, drama--whatever they enjoy-- but the activities will keep them away from negative distractions.
- Remove yourself from toxic friends. Ain't nobody got time for that.
- Embrace the differences in your children. Resist the urge to compare them to each other.
- Make your husband feel special, too! He needs affection as much as the children do.
- Work as a team with your husband. This requires calm communication.
- Have family or date nights in!
- As you move out of preschool, it's very important to KNOW THEIR FRIENDS.
- Social media is especially fraught, whether you allow your kids to have it or not. The bottom line is to stay aware of what they're doing online.
- Connect your children with social issues early!
- Be wary of travel sports leagues and year-round sports before middle school. Encourage your children to try a variety of activities before choosing what they truly enjoy.
What did you think? What was our experts' best advice? Add your thoughts in the comments section on our facebook page. All of these thoughts are open to conversation!
*Special thanks to the members of our Wisdom Panel! Pictured L-R from top: Teri Gonzalez, Cheryl Virta, Shannon Graham, Beth Rasche, and Meg Commander.
