Community Voices for Health

By:  Kristen Clifford

You know that expression “everyone is a perfect parent, until they have kids?” Well, I never quite understood what people meant when they said that, until I had kids of my own.

Three years ago whenever I was out in public and would see a tantruming toddler, or a parent that was losing their patients I would think to myself that will never be me! My children will behave well and listen to every word I say. It’s all based on discipline! Well boy was I a fool! Flash forward to present day and I’m often seen out in public with a tantruming toddler, while I talk through my teeth trying not to yell in public, while I have two screaming babies.

You see, kids don’t exactly get the memo that screaming and crying in public is extremely embarrassing! I used to see those parents with the screaming kids and judge them, but now I offer a sympathy look that says I understand! I’ve been there before. I feel for you.

Yes, yes, you can say well they need to nap, or need to learn how to behave in public. But even if they have napped, and they know they can’t always get a toy at the store, or that we always listen to Mommy and Daddy’s words they still will tantrum!

Even if it’s their 2nd Birthday party …

or if they are going to have lots of fun at dance …

And babies will still cry sometimes even if they are fed, burped, changed, and comfortable..well, because that’s what babies do!

So I guess what I am saying it next time you see a Mom struggling with her child in public, cut her a break, she may just be doing her best! After all Jill Churchill said it best “There is no way to be a perfect mother, but a million ways to be a good one!”