I became a mom at a young age, and one of the things I worried about the most is what others thought. When my kids disobeyed in public I was more concerned about the opinions of strangers than I was about correcting and gently disciplining my kids. Looking back, I wish I could give this advice to my younger self:
“Don’t worry about others’ opinions when the kids disobey in public–especially strangers. You will most likely never see those people again. Instead, do what’s best for your child. Think of his or her heart. Consider how you can teach a lesson instead of trying to save face.”
What about you? What advice would you give to your younger Mom-self? I asked some of my Facebook friends, and here were their {great} responses: 1. Don’t sweat the small stuff! And understood how quick they grow up! — Christine 2. Use your money wisely. Your kids don’t need more toys, they need more quality time with you. —Lynn 3. Lighten up. Don’t let yourself become so concerned with raising a good kid that you forget you already have one! —Tanya 4. Be the person God made you to be and not a people pleaser! Relax, give your worries to the Lord, be grateful and praise continually! — Shirley 5. Remember you’re here to prepare the child for life, not “fix” life for the child. — Kristi 6. Choose your battles wisely; don’t hover. Let your children be children! — Kathy 7. Be quick to forgive and even quicker to ask for forgiveness. — Michelle 8. Don’t count!! Why did I ever give my kids 3 more chances to ignore my authority? First time obedience!! Also, don’t let them become picky eaters by catering to their whiny complaints. — Kate 9. Relax and enjoy every moment. Memories with your little ones are more important than a sparkling clean house! — Athena 10. Accept help when given. Rest. Trust in God—You don’t need to do this alone. — Veronica 11. Stay present, enjoy the moment, forget about that “to do” list, it will all get done. — Kristina 12. Do you want blisters from running around with your kids, or from sweeping with the broom? I can tell you which one you’ll cherish more. — Alonna
Read the rest of the post over at forthefamily.org!
Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my email updates, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, or Instagram.
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Leave a Reply