When you first become a parent, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of advice coming your way. From well-meaning family members to the countless parenting books that line the shelves, everyone seems to have an opinion on what you should or shouldn’t be doing. But here’s the thing: there are exceptions to every rule.
Parenting Books: Advice, Not Gospel
Parenting books can be incredibly helpful. They offer insights, tips, and strategies that can make those early days a little less daunting. However, it’s important to remember that these books should be seen as advice, not gospel. What works for one family might not work for another, and that’s perfectly okay.
Every child is unique, and every parent is different. While a particular method or routine might work wonders for your friend’s baby, it doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you and yours. And that’s not a reflection on your parenting; it’s simply a reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to raising children.
You and Your Baby: A Unique Bond
You know your baby better than anyone else. You understand their little quirks, what makes them giggle, and what helps them settle. This unique bond between you and your child is something that no book can fully capture. Trusting your instincts as a parent is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to take a step back and do things your way.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially in the age of social media where everyone seems to be nailing this whole parenting thing. But remember, what you see online is often a highlight reel. Behind every picture-perfect post, there are likely sleepless nights, toddler tantrums, and moments of self-doubt—just like in your own life.
Finding Your Groove
One of the most liberating things you can do as a parent is to embrace your own parenting style. Whether you’re a by-the-book parent who loves structure and routine, or you’re more of a go-with-the-flow type, what matters most is that you’re doing what feels right for you and your family.
There’s no rule that says you have to follow every piece of advice you read or hear. In fact, some of the best parenting decisions are made when you choose to trust yourself over any book or expert opinion. You and your baby will find your groove—one that works for both of you.
Breaking the “Rules”
It’s okay to break the so-called “rules” if they don’t fit your situation. Maybe your baby prefers to be rocked to sleep even though the book says they should self-soothe. Perhaps you’ve decided to follow a different approach to feeding, or you’ve thrown the idea of a strict routine out the window. Whatever your choices, the most important thing is that they work for you and your child.
Parenting is a journey, and like any journey, there will be twists and turns along the way. There will be moments when you feel like you’ve got everything under control and others when you’re scrambling to find your footing. But through it all, remember that you’re doing your best, and that’s more than enough.
Embrace Your Individuality
In the end, the best advice I can give you is to embrace your individuality as a parent. You don’t have to fit into any particular mould or follow any set path. The love and care you provide your child is what truly matters.
So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and embrace the unique parenting style that works for you and your baby. Because at the end of the day, no one knows your child better than you do.
With love and confidence,
Julia