Real Milestones for Parents of Young Kids

When I first became a parent, I was overwhelmed by the amount of advice and guidance available in books, blogs, and podcasts. I spent so much time reading and listening to experts, trying to figure out the "right" way to raise my child.

But as my child grew and I gained more experience as a parent, I realized that much of what I had learned was not very useful or practical. I also realized that some of the most important milestones for parents of young kids are not the ones you typically find in parenting how-to books.

Real Milestones for Parents of Young Kids

• Surviving your first year as a parent without losing your mind or your relationship with your partner
• Teaching your child to say "please" and "thank you" and mean it
• Helping your child learn to share, be kind, and show empathy to others
• Encouraging your child's curiosity, creativity, and love of learning
• Making time for self-care and maintaining your own identity as a person, not just a parent
• Creating a strong and supportive network of friends and family who can help you when you need it
• Learning to let go of control and trust that your child will find their own path in life

These are just a few examples of the real milestones that parents of young kids often overlook or take for granted. They may not be the most glamorous or exciting milestones, but they are the ones that will make the biggest difference in your child's life and your own as a parent.

Conclusion

In summary, parenting is not an exact science, and there is no one "right" way to do it. While parenting how-to books can be helpful, they can also be overwhelming and unrealistic. Instead, focus on the real milestones that will help you and your child thrive, such as surviving your first year as a parent, teaching your child life skills, nurturing creativity and curiosity, making time for self-care, building a support network, and trusting your child's journey.

Remember, every child is different, and what works for one family may not work for another. The key is to find what works for you and your family, and to never stop learning and growing as a parent.