If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a parent, it’s that kids are masters at feeling hard done by. They can go from thanking me for the latest toy to whining about how their friends have cooler stuff in a heartbeat. My three little ones, in particular, are experts at comparing their lives to their pals, and let me tell you, it drives me crazy.
They seem to think I’m the most restrictive mom on the block. Just the other day, my son declared, “You’re way stricter than our friends’ moms, like, a ton.” I suspect he hoped to sway my decisions, but that’s not happening anytime soon.
Sure, I might not be the strictest mom in the universe, but honestly, if I am tougher than the other parents, I couldn’t care less. My priority is raising my kids in a way that I believe is right.
They can call me the “mean mom” all they want and huff off to their rooms, slamming doors in protest. That doesn’t bother me nearly as much as feeling like I’m compromising my values just to keep up with the Joneses. If letting them dictate the rules meant chaos, I’d rather be the strict mom.
I didn’t sign up for parenthood to gain popularity; I became a mom because I wanted a family. My mission is to nurture kind, respectful individuals, and I don’t think that can be achieved by letting them run wild based on what they see their friends do.
Of course, some people might disagree, and that’s perfectly fine. But there’s no way my teenage son is going to set his own curfew or decide where he spends the night. And I’m definitely not budging on his bedroom door being closed while he hangs out with his new girlfriend, even if he claims, “All my friends can do it, Mom!” Right. I’ll just give their parents a call to confirm.
Likewise, I won’t allow my daughter to get a $60 body piercing just because her friends are doing it as a “friendship symbol.” As their mother, it’s my responsibility to listen to their requests, offer my input, and stand firm when necessary. I’ll veto whatever I feel is unsuitable.
If I let them take control, our home would be in complete disarray. I do allow them to express their opinions and make choices, but I don’t bend to their every demand because they aren’t in charge of me.
So, label me as the strict mom or whatever else you like. It doesn’t sting my feelings. From my perspective, my kids are doing well without having the freedom to set their own rules. They’re healthy, happy, and thriving. When they turn 18 and can manage their own lives, I’m sure I’ll get plenty of calls asking, “Mom, what should I do?”
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In summary, being the strict mom is part of my parenting style. I don’t shy away from setting rules, as I believe that’s essential for raising responsible and kind individuals. While my kids may grumble about my decisions now, I’m confident they will appreciate my guidance in the long run.
Keyphrase: Strict mom parenting
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