How to Be a Super Parent (Kind Of)

There are times in parenting you may feel defeated. The sink is full of dishes, your toddler is running around in their underwear and you never quite got around to those Pinterest crafts you’d been pinning all week. We see all these blogs with moms creating animals out of their kids’ breakfast; they have spotless homes and seem to have enough time at the end of the day to go to the gym to workout. This type of image can make parents feel like they aren’t good enough. Every parent wants to be a super mom or dad. Here are my not so traditional tips to achieving this phenomenon:

1. Know that no matter what, you are a super hero.

To your children you are the world. They don’t care if the laundry isn’t folded or if you haven’t dusted in a week. All your kids want is to spend time with you.

2. Take a second to reflect on the things you have accomplished.

If you are feeling like there just isn’t enough time in the day take a second to go over what you have already accomplished and feel good about that. Maybe write a to-do list; every time you cross off a task you’ll feel a lot better. But remember, schedule in time for your kids or even ask them to help with small chores so you’ll have more time to spend together.
 
3. Take time for yourself.

Even if you feel like you don’t have time for yourself, make time. Your children will not benefit from a stressed out parent who hasn’t showered and is humming Disney songs all day. Your kids will be happiest when their parents are happiest.

4. Being a super mom or dad does not mean perfection.

Most of us know that no one is perfect. But, as parents we strive for perfection. We want the cleanest homes, the happiest kids, the perfect work-life balance, the ability to cook a four course meal every night. This is a false sense of reality that social media wants us to believe is attainable. Pick your battles and do what is best for your family and time. Striving for perfection and stressing out is not a good example to be setting.

5. Realize your kids won’t be little forever.

Time is precious. Embrace every second. Choose what’s important and try not to stress about the rest. You are perfect just the way you are.