Each year when our oldest son has his birthday, I like to take some time to reflect on being a mom and what I have learned throughout the year. This year was full of change with adding a new member to the family and our son starting “school” for the first time (2 days a week). We had to figure out our new family dynamic as well as learn to parent through a more challenging season. You can check out previous reflections here: Motherhood Lessons: Year One, Motherhood Lessons: Year Two, Motherhood Lessons: Year Three.
My husband and I have definitely learned a lot this year as we have had to navigate big changes and emotions. We are currently striving to promote independence, talk about feelings/emotions, be respectful of other family members, practice gratitude, and problem solve.
I would love to know any lessons you have learned through your own journey!
1.Evolve with your children. Parenting is a huge learning process!
2.Do what is best for your family- there is no rule book to parenting or a one size fits all.
3.Encourage communication about feelings and what they are needing.
4.Create healthy boundaries and follow through.
5.Talk about the why. Kids are so much more understanding when they understand the reason.
6.Be consistent in expectations.
7.Find things that work for your child. It is great to get advice and perspective from other parents, but at the end of the day each child and situation is different. What works for one, may not work for the other (even in the same family).
8.Be a safe space for your child…especially when there is a lot of change.
9.Go with the flow.
10.Don’t underestimate the power of praise…do it as often as you can!
As always, sending light and love.
Blessings,
Jac
The Bridwells 