We’re loving the updates from YOU, our loyal readers, regarding the best parenting advice you have learned through experience. As we all know, we learn from each other and we always have to adapt to our kids, our situations and anything that tends to happen! It feels good to read these tips and know that the bottom line is all of us are doing our best and learning along the way. Parenting is something I don’t think you ever “master!” It’s fun to evolve and enjoy every stage along the way! Submit yours here or via email springfieldmoms.org@gmail.com by July 29th to be entered in the drawing for two Peter Pan August 4th Muni tickets!
“Take time to hold your kids and tell them you love them every day. Also stop and listen to their stories.” Jennifer M., mom to Jaedan, 3, and Oliva, 10
“Don’t discipline in anger.” Mandy A., mom to Dallas, 6, and Justin, 2.
“The most important thing that I have learned is to try your best to remain calm no matter what!” Amanda B., mom to Brayden, 4 and Maggie, 1.
“Pick your battles.” Michelle G., mom to Zane, 5
“Go on ‘dates’ with each kid and do something they love!” Lisa L., mom to Josiah, 4, Gracie, 3, Isabelle, 18 months, and Ezra, 8 weeks.
“When you feel something is wrong, when you wonder what decision is right, when you just don’t know what to do…do what your heart tells you and stick with your instinct.” Leah B., mom to Joel, 6, and Jared, 3.
“Find the best in each of your kids. One might be smart, the other might be creative, etc. Point out their positives on a daily basis and tell them. Look for the best in each situation.” Halley W., mom to Sylias, 2 ½ and stepmom to Haleigh, 9.
“Allow plenty of ‘margin.’ Over scheduling your time or your kids’ time just leads to exhaustion on all sides and strained relationships.” Tara M., mom to Jordan, 6, Abby and Ellie, 4, and Carsten, 17 months.
“Take time from ‘doing’ to enjoy ‘being.’” Cheri H., mom to Taylor, 9 and Jackson, 5.
“Build forts, catch lightning bugs, read every day, and get messy! Some of the most fun you can have with your child(ren) is keeping things simple.” Jenny G., mom of Cooper, 2.
“Listen more than you lecture. Mean what you say, whether in love or discipline, and always follow through with it, whether a consequence or a promise. Parenting is a blessing…never forget that it’s an honor with obligation!” Amy D.
“Remember that everything you are doing is creating a memory. Make it a good one.” Cari P., mom of Caleb, 9.
“Treat each child as an individual. Let them learn and expand their knowledge by letting them adventure without preconceived ideas. Let them dream and be kids. Our world is so fast paced, we need to stop and allow them to enjoy being a child.” Christy S., mom of Kelsi, 21, Emma and Alli, 10 and stepmom of Jacob, 9.
“Love them unconditionally, take time to be silly with them, and don’t sweat the small stuff!” Lynn C., mom of Alex, 9, and Max, 8.
“Love them as they are, guide them in the right direction, and make sure they know they are beautiful no matter what the world might say.” Sarah P., mom to Damion, 18, Nathan, 12, Caileigh, 11, Jason, 8, Liberty, 4 (and baby due Sept. 23).
“Don’t ask your kids what they want to be when they grow up; ask them WHO they want to be. This driving question of character and identity is soooo much more important than a career or skill!” Jenny F., mom to Elliana, 5, and Josiah, 21 months.
“Teach respect and unconditional love, and don’t be afraid to get silly with your kids!” Ronda S., mom to Ryon, 21, Cody, 18, Braeden, 11 and Delilah, 3.
“Take a deep breath before reacting and enjoy the ride because they grow way too fast!” Mindy D., mom to Trenton, 3.
“Don’t expect them to be little adults. They’re not. Find as much patience within as you can and enjoy all the precious moments.” Melisa H., mom to Austin, 18, Maddy, 15 and Grayson, 11.
Stay tuned we will add more next week!
One night each week is our family night, where we go out to eat, maybe get frozen yogurt at Cherry Berry or do some shopping. Viviana is four and we think it’s important for her to spend time with us as a family. This is one night where the TV is off!