The second you become a parent there are people in your ear letting you know how they did things, how you should do things and why you are doing it all wrong. Whether they say you didn’t buy the right changing table or you’re acting too soft, not all advice was created equal. That’s why when you get some good advice it’s important to share it around. Here’s 4 mums on the best piece of parenting advice they’ve been given.
Ruth Dearing | Children and Technology
“A few years ago my sister (also a mother with kids older than mine) asked me if I was getting help for my son who was four years old and not forming all of his words or sounds clearly. I didn’t know what she meant, I thought the way he was pronouncing his words was “normal” for a child his age. My sister thought differently because one of her girls had been at a similar point at the same age.
Following this conversation I was able to access a six week speech therapy course for my son, fully sponsored through the government so at no cost to me. During this six weeks my son progressed leaps and bounds, so by the time he started kindergarten he could speak clearly and be easily understood.
My sister had been hesitant to say anything to me because she didn’t want me to get upset. However she did both my son and myself a massive favour by having the courage to speak out. Lesson learned: listen to advice from others (especially other parents) rather than just thinking you know best. It’s usually coming from a caring place. Then you can make a decision as to whether to follow that advice or not.”
Follow on Facebook and Twitter.
MD Pro Tip:
You don’t have to do it alone
There’s a lot of times parenting feels like a major struggle. But you are surrounded by family and friends and parenting websites and experts here to help you, tell you what to do (or what not to) and make you laugh when you need it. Our advice is to remember you don’t have to do it alone. You can ask for help anytime you want.
Check out MyDeal baby equipment to get you through the early years and our parenting blog for more tips and advice!
Catherine Ngo | The Millennial Mum
“Often parents feel the need to succumb to societal pressures and we don't follow our own advice enough. As parents, we instinctively know what's best for our children and there is never one way to do things. For example, formula has a terrible reputation but if you’ve tried everything and trust this is best for your baby, save the guilt, ignore the judgement and do what YOU know is best.”
Find more on Instagram and Facebook.
Anastasia Scott-Myles | KidSpace Gold Coast
“One of my mummy friends gave me advice that I hang onto every day: you will have good days and bad days. I’ve turned it into a mantra that helps me manage my emotions during tough moments: when your newborn wants to be held all day (and your toddler does too), your toddler throws up at the checkout, or your teen tells you they have no friends - reminding yourself that those moments pass (deep breaths- good days, bad days!) can stop you from losing your mind.”
Check out their Facebook and Instagram.
Lucy Cook | Amaze Education
“The best parenting advice I ever received was don’t sweat the small stuff, and tomorrow is a new day. Focus on what is important, your house may be messy, you may have just had cereal for dinner, but everyone is fed, loved and happy. Tomorrow is a new day 😊.”
Find more on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
At the end of the day it’s all just advice. You can take it or leave it but we think these mums have the right idea.
