I remember talking with a friend who had just had her third baby about this bizarre journey of parenting that we’re both on. We were mulling over the realities of life as a parent, and indeed how much our lives had changed, as we sipped on McCoffees and made use of the free playground… as you do. And in the course of our discussion we came to the conclusion that even though you’ve been there before, and you think you know how it’s going to go, you actually, really don’t.
Even when it’s your second or third or fourth time around the playground, you just can’t tell what being mama or papa to this new little person is going to be like.
Each baby, toddler and child brings with them their own unique set of challenges, and as you try to restore family life to some state of equilibrium while facing each new challenge head on, you are likely to take on board (and ignore) advice from friends, family and strangers, Google a lot, cry a lot more, laugh hysterically, visit doctors or other professionals – often unnecessarily and throw your hands up in exasperation. Then, and only then, something may just click and then it all just kind of works again…at least for a little while!
And that’s the thing about parenting – no one can tell you how it’s going to be. For you. And in my experience not even you can tell.
Every pregnancy is different, every birth, every babyhood and toddlerhood, every start to school, every playground, classroom and sports field experience will be different for each and every child. And each of these experiences will be different for you each time you face them alongside a child too.
You change with age, experience and the constantly shifting circumstances of life. You become stronger, more determined, more resilient with each and every day of parenting. And even though you may find yourself stifling sobs in the shower or hiding in the pantry sneaking a stress relieving chocolate hit, you will find a way forward.
It’s just the way it is.
What is one thing you ‘know’ about parenting?
Christie Burnett is an early childhood teacher, presenter, writer and the editor of Childhood 101. More importantly, she is a Mum who believes wholeheartedly in the value of children learning through play, the importance of quality early education, and the togetherness of family.
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