Recently, I came across a bumper sticker that resonated with me, declaring, “Proud Parent of an Amazing Kid Who Can Be a Jerk Sometimes, and That’s Okay.” I found it amusing and, upon returning home, I searched for it online. While I wouldn’t actually purchase it—my children probably wouldn’t find humor in being called jerks on a bumper sticker—I stumbled upon a myriad of other “Proud Parent” stickers, including:
- Proud Parent of a Compassionate Child
- Proud Parent of a Homeschool Honor Student
- Proud Parent of Wonderful Children
- Proud Parent of a Highly Gifted Kid
- Proud Parent of a Child With Strong Values
- Proud Parent of My Star Student
- Proud Parent of Generous Kids
I mean, I’m sure all those parents genuinely believe they have kind and intelligent children. However, I often feel like those are the same parents who give me disapproving looks at the store when my child decides to throw a beanbag chair at their sibling. Some of you might even be thinking, “Can’t you control them? Is there any discipline in your home?” And you might be right to think that.
It’s not that I don’t try to teach my kids proper behavior. Some days, it feels like I’m constantly reminding them not to act out. Yet, there are days when I notice that kindness prevails. Just recently, one of my children unexpectedly hugged an elderly woman at a nursing home, even though he was initially reluctant. But then, there are moments when throwing a beanbag chair seems like the right choice to them. The truth is, sometimes my kids behave poorly, and so do yours.
The reality is that everyone has their moments of being difficult. It’s a universal truth. Even the most revered figures in history, like Gandhi and Abraham Lincoln, likely had their off days. In essence, being human means being an occasional jerk, and the same applies to children.
I find myself weary of the judgment that comes from seeing bumper stickers that proclaim “Kind Kids With Strong Values” while mine are in the backseat engaging in less-than-ideal behavior. I often worry that my children’s misbehavior reflects poorly on my parenting skills. I’ve consumed an overwhelming amount of parenting advice from blogs and magazines that insist, “You’re doing it wrong; here’s how to fix it.” Most frustratingly, I’m tired of measuring my worth as a parent against the imagined judgments of others, even if they don’t exist.
Who am I kidding? I don’t spend too much time worrying about this. However, I do wish I could get that bumper sticker because my kids can definitely be jerks sometimes—just like yours.
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In summary, parenting comes with its challenges, and it’s important to remember that all children have their difficult moments. Embracing this reality can help alleviate some of the pressure and guilt many parents feel.
Keyphrase: “parenting challenges”
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