Updated: February 18, 2016
Originally Published: February 18, 2016
Parenthood is often accompanied by a significant amount of tears—not just from the children, but from parents as well. It’s a well-established fact that infants cry frequently, but this behavior extends through toddlerhood, preschool years, and into adolescence. While the causes for tears may evolve, the presence of crying and tantrums remains one of the more challenging (and yet, somewhat predictable) facets of parenting.
Fortunately, there are moments when these emotional outbursts can be quite amusing. Kids often throw fits over reasons that may seem both infuriating and hilarious, and a helpful coping mechanism is to appreciate the humor in these situations. Although it might be difficult to find the funny side in the heat of the moment, reflecting on your child’s most dramatic episodes can reveal a treasure trove of comedic moments. Just take a cue from the humorous parents on Twitter, who manage to laugh about the more chaotic elements of child-rearing.
1. Effective Tactics
Even the most steadfast disciplinarians occasionally succumb to the whims of their little ones. Sometimes, in a bid to end a tantrum, parents find themselves giving in to negotiations. Toddlers have an uncanny knack for understanding when they’ve got the upper hand, especially when it comes to coveted items like that one dirty Elsa sippy cup.
2. Justifiable Tears
During the toddler years, parents often remind themselves that these phases are temporary. However, as they witness an exhausted first grader struggling with Common Core math late in the evening, it becomes clear that some tears are indeed justified.
3. The Dread of Party Favors
After enduring a raucous birthday party, parents often find themselves trying to rid the house of unwanted party favors. Yet, children possess an impressive memory for such “treasures,” making it a challenge to discreetly dispose of the clutter. Wouldn’t it be easier if they could forget these items like they did when they were infants?
4. The Struggles of Mobility
For those who believe that tantrums only begin at age two, witnessing a frustrated baby yearning for an out-of-reach toy can be eye-opening. Their cries are a testament to the challenges of immobility.
5. The Absurdity of Tears
Sometimes, it’s the trivial things that trigger an emotional response. Whether it’s slightly burnt toast or a lack of enthusiastic applause for using the potty, these seemingly small issues can lead to dramatic breakdowns.
6. Empathy in Meltdowns
When faced with a child’s meltdown, parents must momentarily push aside any lingering thoughts of the mess and chaos surrounding them. By the end, they may find themselves joining in the tears—after all, who wouldn’t empathize with such extreme frustration?
7. Anticipating the Worst
Racing to attend to a screaming child can induce a certain suspense akin to defusing a bomb. Will it be a minor inconvenience or a significant crisis? The unknown adds to the tension.
8. Public Embarrassment
In public settings, parents often concede to a child’s demands to avoid further embarrassment. However, once they are home, they may find satisfaction in reclaiming authority—even if it means indulging in something sweet.
9. Navigating Timing
Preventing a morning meltdown can feel like a high-stakes game. A single misstep can lead to chaos and lateness, requiring deftness and patience.
10. Finding Calm
When overwhelmed, deep breathing can help. If that fails, a glass of wine might be the next best option.
In summary, while parenting undoubtedly includes its fair share of tears and tantrums, it also offers moments of levity and humor. Engaging with resources like Make a Mom’s Artificial Insemination Kit can provide additional support for those on this journey. For further reading, Cryobaby’s offerings are also invaluable, along with Resolve’s family building options, which serve as excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Keyphrase: Parenting humor and tantrums
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]