Parenting My Child
Does parenting seem scary or uncomfortable? Are you asking if you are even ready to be a parent? Don’t worry, every single person that has had a baby asks the exact same question even under the best of circumstances. Yes. Parenting is a really big deal. It’s a life-long commitment…literally, but it is one of the most amazing journeys you will ever be on.
Some of our clients are in a time of life when they are just getting started, learning who they are, and figuring out how to take care of themselves. So the idea of taking care of a baby can be scary. We totally get it. We need money, time, stability and resources to help support us in our parenting journeys. It doesn’t matter if you are choosing to be a single parent or if you are in a relationship and you will be co-parenting. There is some really good news! Are you ready?? You are not alone! There is no perfect parent, and there are tons of resources that can help you find the things you need, the confidence to do your best and some amazing tips that can help you along the way. At Pathways of Pella, we have some resources for you to consider: Childbirth Class to prepare you for labor and delivery, Newborn / Infant Care Class to teach you how to recognize your baby’s different cries, how to change a diaper, how to hold and how to bathe your little one. Just to name a few to help you feel confident and succeed, but there are so many more.
Here’s the thing. Parenting can be scary. There are no ifs, ands or buts about it. By choosing to parent your child means you are saying you are the best choice for your child. And, guess what? If you choose to parent, you are choosing a beautiful relationship that will last a lifetime, if done with love and consistency.
Parenting comes with sacrifices. You will sacrifice sleep, time, nights out, a perfectly clean home, privacy and more. You will gain a new perspective, self-worth, confidence, purpose and so much more. You will have amazing days, and you will have some challenging days. It’s just how it goes. The good days far outweigh the difficult days.
Here are some good things to remember when you choose to parent.
- Forgive Yourself: Let me let you in on a secret. You will not be the perfect parent. No one is. But, you are the perfect parent for your child. Know that you will make mistakes, learn from them, and move on. But also know that no one knows what your child needs better than you.
- Remember Your Tribe: Ever heard that saying, it takes a village to raise a child? It’s completely true. Depend on your tribe to encourage you in your parenting journey and help you when you need it. If you don’t have that kind of support, we can be that for you!
- Reach Out For Support: There are tons of classes, workshops and more on parenting. We offer classes here at the center, but there are all kinds of resources in the community that are available to you as well. Give us a call and we can tell you what we have to offer. We’d love to see you and be part of your parenting journey.
- Don’t Forget Your Goals: Just because life has thrown you a curve ball doesn’t mean you can’t pursue your dreams. Find a way to work towards your goals. You’ve got a little one who will depend on you. Be someone they can be proud of.
Choosing to parent a child is a serious choice. Cute little babies grow up, and have different needs in every stage of their development. As with any choice you make, you live with the choice. Be reflective and make sure the choice you make is your choice.