Hey there, parents! You’re doing an amazing job, likely better than you even recognize. Parenting is challenging, but chances are you’re getting it right. Give yourself the credit you truly deserve.
I’m not the mother I thought I’d be. While I don’t consider myself a bad parent, I genuinely believe I’m a great one. I love my kids deeply. Each night, I remind them of my love, my pride in them, and how excited I am to see them in the morning.
When I first became a mom, I imagined being one of those parents who never falls behind on laundry, who never raises their voice, and who never mutters expletives under their breath. For the first few years with my oldest, I was that parent.
But parenting becomes more demanding.
Kids grow. Now, I have three. Life unfolds in unexpected ways, and I often find myself in the bathroom, surrounded by discarded pajamas and wet towels, exclaiming, “Why doesn’t anyone in this house feel the need to listen to me?! The hamper is RIGHT THERE!”
Then there’s our home. We purchased it three years ago. It wasn’t a fixer-upper; it was clean and livable. However, it’s far from my dream home, so we’ve slowly worked on projects to personalize it. I’m grateful for our safe and warm shelter, but it wouldn’t win any awards for curb appeal. I’d never call it “the best house in the world.”
If I had to sum up our family and home, I’d say we’re happy, I’m a decent mom, and we’re fortunate to have a warm, safe place to live, even if it’s not visually stunning.
Now, let me share my child’s perspective.
Just yesterday, while driving, my eight-year-old asked if we’d still live in this house when he grows up. I told him I wasn’t sure; we’re not planning to move anytime soon but might in the future. I assumed he wanted to suggest something for our next home.
Instead, he said he hoped to buy this house from its owners when he has his first child. “I want my kids to experience living in the best house in the whole world for kids.”
My heart swelled, and tears welled in my eyes. I promised him that if we still live here, I would let him buy our home for his kids. I hadn’t realized how much I needed to hear that he is content until he said it.
While I see a modest house with its share of flaws, he sees “the best house in the whole world.” He’s been in plenty of homes I’d consider superior—friends with sprawling mansions, my dad’s place with a pool, homes with beach access, and shows featuring dream homes with extravagant features.
But for him, our small house is perfect because it’s not about the structure. He doesn’t notice the beige siding I wish to replace, the muddy driveway needing gravel, or the cracked walkway. He doesn’t care that our DIY kitchen could use refinishing or that much of our furniture is secondhand.
He simply feels the love here.
Sure, this is where I occasionally raise my voice about wet towels and snack wrappers. My kids have chores to do, but it’s also where I’ve shown them how to make Italian cookies, just like my grandmother taught me. It’s where they can run around in their underwear with capes, pretending to save the day. Our backyard is where they discovered the joy of water balloons on hot summer days. Here, they can express their emotions without fear of judgment from friends.
There is nowhere else where my cozy bed and open arms are available for comfort in the middle of the night when they’re feeling sad or unwell.
I’m sure you have your own experiences like mine.
For many of us, this is the essence of parenthood, isn’t it? Most days are spent questioning whether we’re doing it right. No matter how hard we try, we wonder if the magic we aim to create is evident. Each night, we lay down, promising ourselves to be more patient tomorrow. It often feels like we’re running around like headless chickens trying to maintain order, yet we still see a hundred things that need fixing.
The knees of our kids’ jeans are perpetually stained, our homes accumulate dust, and we often feel like we could use more time for ourselves. The list of things we wish we could improve is endless.
But your children don’t see any of that. Occasionally, they remind you how well you’re actually doing. They’re oblivious to the worries that keep you awake at night, but they help you recognize the areas where you truly excel.
The countless small, beautiful things we do as parents accumulate in ways we can’t fully comprehend, and our kids feel happy because they are safe and loved in our care.
Every enthusiastic smile as they dash to the car after school, every colorful bandage or gentle kiss on a boo-boo, each shared story, coloring session, or video game moment, and cozy movie nights with popcorn—all of these moments show them we want what’s best for them.
I felt incredibly lucky when my son declared that our house was his idea of a perfect childhood home. But he was mistaken; our house isn’t the best for every child—it’s the best for MY kids because it’s filled with love.
If you ask, I’m confident your kids feel the same way. They’ll likely tell you your home—whether it’s a grand estate or a quaint little house like mine—is the very best place for kids.
I know that hearing about how well you’re doing as a parent won’t fix financial worries or erase past traumas. It won’t simplify sharing custody with your kids’ other parent. However, it’s essential for every parent to take a moment to acknowledge the countless ways you’re absolutely succeeding. Creating a loving home where your children can be their true selves transforms any house into “the best house in the world for kids.” I truly believe that.
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Summary:
Parenting is a challenging yet rewarding journey, often filled with self-doubt. However, it’s crucial to recognize that children don’t need a perfect upbringing; they just need the love and support of their parents. The true essence of a happy childhood lies in the warmth and safety of the home, as illustrated by a child’s perspective on their living environment.
Keyphrase: Perfect Childhood
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