So I’ve only been in this “parenting game” for just over six years. Sometimes it feels more like sixteen. In that time, I feel like I’ve learned things, I’ve screwed things up, and I’ve shed more tears than can fit in my bathtub. I’ve yelled more times than I care to admit. So with that being said, here are (just a few!) of the things I’ve learned in this crazy parenting journey. Enjoy!

When you think you have it figured out, the next day will be totally different.
When you think you’ve mastered ‘parenting’, the next kid does the complete opposite, and you have to re-earn everything you thought you knew.
Coffee and friends somehow make everything seem better and that the day will get better.
You are going to compare yourself with other parents. This is a trap. Remember no one knows how to parent your children but you.
Baby wipes are my best friend. I have them everywhere. I mean, EVERYWHERE.
Most everyone lies on social media. That cute picture that your friend posted of their smiling toddler? Totally staged, and that child was most likely bribed. How do I know? I am 100% guilty of it. A lot. For every cute picture you see on my Facebook, it took thirty tries before getting it right.
The words “penis” and “vagina” will roll off your tongue with ease.
No matter how the day goes, no matter how frustrated or angry I get and feel like I screwed up so much, I always make sure I say I’m sorry to them. And ask them to forgive me.
At bedtime, I always tell my children, “I love you when you’re happy, I love you when you’re mad, I love you when you’re sad, I love you no matter what.”
You are going to have bad days. Remember what Anne Shirley said in Anne of Green Gables? “Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it.” Remember that.
You’ll never regret taking too many pictures or videos. Just be sure to back them up!
You are not weak or a bad mom if you need or ask for help. No one can do this alone. No one.
Special activities during the week make life memorable. Make blanket forts, pop popcorn and have a movie night. Eat dessert before dinner at least once.
The little moments in life become big memories for your kids.
Being honest and open (as much as possible) makes the world of difference. Your kids will be open with you.
Writing down the funny things your kids say will be incredibly uplifting. It will also serve as blackmail later on.
Date nights are incredibly important. Don’t skimp out. Be creative.
Gross your children out. Kiss your spouse in front of them. Show affection.
Teach your children that you don’t always have time for them. Teach them to wait. They are not the centre of your world. They are a very important part, but not the only part.
Know that no one wants to do the worst job possible as a parent. Do the best you can with what you have. Forgive yourself, and keep going.

Please share what you have learned. You never know who will benefit from your honesty.

Written by Paula Dibbits RECE CIMI, Parent Support Educator

What Being a Mom has Taught Me