Recently, the girls have become more vocal about what the want, like and everything in between. Their requests become challenging at times. Sure I want to respect the things they like, but at what cost? The Mommy Guilt starts rolling in fast when I say no and those tears start rolling down their little faces. Then I start struggling, do I give in? Do I stand my ground? Maybe there’s a way to compromise. You’re stomach becomes filled with anxiety and in reality you have about 1.5 seconds to make a decision. Anyone else feel this way? This is the minute knowing and understanding your parenting style kicks in.
It’s funny, I look at the different styles and realized that I am any one of these on any given day. There are days when I am trying to work and get things done, so I totally give in. I let them do whatever just so they entertain themselves for an hour or two while I knock a few things out. This is tricky because then they want this more, they love the freedom to do what they want. So reeling them in after this is where the challenge is.
Rarely do I find myself as an Authoritarian type, mainly because I am a person that has to know reasons why something is the way it is. Now, maybe six years ago when I was much more Type A than I am now, it might have been a different story. I have really mellowed out in that department, but I think it’s because I have kids. With kids I think you have to be flexible. They’re young and still learning, and need to see there are options available.
Did you ever imagine how you would parent before you had kids? I did and I thought I’d be much more equipped to handle discipline than I am. When they do something wrong and it catches you off guard, you might snap and yell “NOOO!” Usually this is Amelia, and she gets startled, puts her hands over her face and then peaks her little brown eyes through her fingers. It’s the cutest thing. Or she’ll know she did something wrong and immediately come snuggle, give me hugs and kisses. It just melts my heart and it can sometimes distract.
I find it hard to always be that person in the middle. But, we do set limits and boundaries, and like to let the girls make choices for themselves. Knowing a little more about yourself and reflecting on these can help you, and them learn how to handle situations and manage expectations.
I think every parent/child relationship is different so there isn’t a sure-fire way to go about it. What are your thoughts on parenting styles? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this, or any stories you have. We are all human and definitely not perfect, we are just doing the best we can with these crazy kids in this crazy world!
Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a wonderful week!
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Indeed. Different folks, different strokes. That’s the beauty of it. We can all learn from others, especially from our parents, and then give our own twist to the style.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
It sounds like you are doing well at figuring out what works for you . I have realized that things ebb and flow in parenting. Sometimes it’s give and take, while other times I do expect the girls to confirm to what the rest of the family needs. Having a co-parent that you talk with really helps and makes the hard divisions as they get older a lutlit easier to navigate.
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