What was the best parenting advice you received and from whom did you receive it?

Answer 1

Never listen to advice. Play it by ear.
I think my mom told me that, or it could have been someone at the playgroups I went to then.

Answer 2

My doctor told me to move my baby into her own room at her 8 week check-up. It was the first time she slept through the night and both of my girls have been sleeping on thier own since they were 2 months old. After the initial transition (2-3 days) putting them to bed has been a breeze (they are 2 and 6). I am so grateful to not have that battle to fight every night!

Answer 3

When I had my son my doctor told me to remember that every child is different and don't expect my son to be a good baby like my daughter was. Any piece of good advise I got was from an old man. I was rushing along and telling my children to hurry up. This old man stepped right in front of me and wouldn't let me pass. I was annoyed to say the least and then he said to me "how can these small babies keep up with you when their legs are shorter than yours, slow down for them don't expect them to hurry for you, one day they'll be the ones telling you to hurry", then he turned and walked away. I did slow down after that day and found a beautiful world full of magic though my children's eyes. So many things I had forgotten and rediscovered though them.Now 20 years later I know he's right because now I'm the one running to keep up with my children.They have moved on and I'm the one that's left behind.

Answer 4

I used to care for a little old lady (96) yrs old and she told me to parent with intent. Never tell your kids what to do, show them. Never expect more from them than you expect from yourself. When you need a break and hubby won't give to you get someone even if you have to pay for it and give yourself a break. Always find out both sides of the story before passing judgment and always redirect and praise. And most of all keep your relationship happy so that when they grow up they will find a happy relationship.

What she didn't tell me and I wish she had was that no matter what you do they are individuals.

Answer 5

It was my mom. She told me the day I had my daughter, that when she is screaming in the grocery store or telling me that she does not need me anymore, that it is just a phase. She will get over it and get through it! That was the best piece of info i was ever given, because just she told me, i have seen the light at the end of the tunnel when these storms have come! When they are over, I have my sweet little girl back. (Usually after a nap)

Answer 6

The best advise that I ever received was to trust my instincts and to listen to what others say (ie advise) but take what makes sense and leave the rest. A complete stranger once told me that our children are borrowed for a short time so enjoy them while they are yours. That's what I have done. I couldn't be happier.

Answer 7

My mother and Grandmother...Kids will eat when they want to eat,tell you when they need to eat, You are the parent and never let them tell You what to do, and never give in when you put down a rule! You are the parent and not the friend. When they say they don't like you,you say OH WELL! I'm not your friend I'm your mom!

Answer 8

My mom told me to sleep when the baby sleeps. Probably the best, most useful piece of advice!

Answer 9

my mom told me, "pick your battles. don't fight every one." some battles aren't worth fighting with your child. pick them carefully. sometimes it's best to not sweat the small stuff and save the battle for those things that are really important.

mother of two
lost some battles, but won the war :)

Answer 10

Fight magic with magic. You can't fight monsters with logic, but a can of magic monster spray always does the trick.

My home health nurse.