Since becoming a mom, I’ve put a lot of thought into how I want to raise my son and the things I think are important for him to grow up learning. I truly believe that these early years play a huge role in shaping who he will become as a person, which is why I think it’s so important to be intentional about the habits and routines we have and create now.
One of the biggest things for me is screen time. I don’t want my son growing up with an iPad in his hands everywhere we go or feeling like he constantly needs to be entertained. I’m not completely against watching TV, and I do allow him to watch it, however, I try to stick to shows that are less stimulating and more educational. It’s really important to me that he is able to play independently, use his imagination, and be comfortable without something constantly keeping his attention.
Another thing that’s important to me is including him in everyday activities instead of always trying to distract him so I can get things done. For example, when I’m cooking, he has a stool that he stands on at the counter with me, and I try my best to involve him rather than distract him… Obviously, having a little one involved makes things take longer, but I think it’s worth it. I’d rather have him watch, help, and learn than feel like I need to put him in front of a screen every time I have something to do.
I also think patience is a huge part of parenting. Sometimes I have to remind myself that everything is new to him. Something that takes me a few seconds might take him a little longer, and that’s okay. He’s learning, and I don’t want to rush him through everything just because it would be easier for me. I want him to feel comfortable trying new things, making mistakes, and figuring things out on his own. That’s why I’ve started asking myself, “Is this dangerous, or just inconvenient?” It helps me recognize when I actually need to step in and when I just need to be patient and let him explore, even if it means a bigger mess.
Routines are another thing I feel strongly about. I think having consistency in everyday life is important, especially for young children. Whether it’s sitting down at the table for meals, practicing basic hygiene, or learning healthy habits like drinking water instead of pop, I want these things to become a normal part of his day. I think the habits we establish when we’re young have a lot to do with the habits we carry into adulthood.
I’m also very fortunate to have a job that allows me to work from home. Being able to spend so much time with my son while also working is something I’m extremely grateful for. It gives me the opportunity to be involved in his everyday routines and consistently work on the things I think are important. I know not everyone has that opportunity, and it’s definitely something I don’t take for granted. Balancing work, school, and being a mom isn’t always easy, but I’m thankful that I get to be here for so much of his day.
I know it’s easy to have all these ideas about parenting, and actually following through with them every day is a different story. There are definitely days when I’m tired, impatient, or things don’t go how I planned. I also know that what works for us now might change as he gets older.
I’m not trying to be a perfect parent, and I don’t think there’s one right way to raise a child. These are just things that matter to me and that I want to be intentional about. I know I can’t control every aspect of who my son will become, but I can do my best to give him a strong foundation. I think a lot of that starts with the little things we do every day, and I want to make sure I’m setting an example of the habits and values I hope he’ll carry with him as he grows up.