10 things I'm learning about kids/parenting...
Get a pen & paper ; )
1. Just because a baby/toddler starts taking their diaper off does not mean they're reading to start potty training!!! That is a straight up lie! Most of the time they're doing it just because they figured out how to do it, lol.
2. I've always been told 'A parent is a parent, not a friend'. Well, I guess this is true, but sometimes as your children get older especially, they might need you...as a friend. So be what they need at that time. It's doesn't take away from you being their parent at all.
M rocking her pink puff
3. There is no 'written in stone' age that a child has to stop taking a bottle or be potty trained. I could go on & on about this, but the easiest way to go, is to do it when you see that they're ready. If you introduce it and they freak out, maybe they're not ready. Keep trying, but don't force them. I think we just need to stop listening to society...or whoeverthehell says when our kids should stop or start doing whatever.
Every child is different! Proceed accordingly.
4. Kids are really funny. Especially when they're allowed to be themselves.
Nia saying cheese
5. Letting kids be themselves, at any age I think, makes them more enjoyable to be around. Let them be unfiltered and totally comfortable around you!
6. You should 'partake' in things they like. My Miona LOVES music. I mean LOVES! And eventhough we don't always like the same music, I still listen to it with her because it's what SHE likes. When I was younger the only thing I could listen to was gospel. It sucked! So entertain your kids and the things they like.
7. Sometimes you have to ignore your kids. Seriously. When they're acting out or getting attitudes, don't pay them any attention. Especially when they want something!!! They'll learn their lesson quicker than if you had yelled at them.
Mason 'cutting' his hair
8. Yelling doesn't work. My mom never yelled at me, but I have found myself getting a little loud with my kids in moments of frustration or extreme fatigue on more than one occasion. Just don't do it. It doesn't solve anything. And do you really want your kids to only respond to you when you yell at them??? I don't think so. Take a minute to gather your thoughts, and breathe. Then handle the situation accordingly. This might be a little harder with preteens/teenagers though, lol
9. Spend time with each of your kids alone. It really makes them feel special, and you learn a lot about them. Mason and I go to DQ or the toy store for our dates. M and I get frozen yogurt or listen to music for hours! Sooo much fun! Nia and I watch Tangled (her favorite right now), dance, or go for a drive.
10. When you have a bad day, they do too. So hide those damn feelings because whatever you're going through has nothing to do with them! Make the day fun and exciting for them, and you may even come out of your funk too.
I love my kids! I also love how much I'm learning from and about them, and myself. Have a great holiday!
I love my kids! I also love how much I'm learning from and about them, and myself. Have a great holiday!
