Things I’ve Learned in Motherhood

by Caitlin on May 10th, 2018 | 2 Comments »

I've been a mom for a few years, eight to be exact. And through the joy, chaos, laughter, and tears...I've learned a few things. Things that every mom should know. So I've gathered the most important tips, because I know that some days, every mom needs a little reminder.

Things I've Learned in Motherhood

12 Things I've learned while being a mother

1. Stop and look. Don't worry about what's happening on your media accounts. Don't be the mom behind the screen day. I know all too well how easy it is to get wrapped up, but stop. Stop what you're doing and look at those sweet faces.

2. Put the camera down. Every one of us is trying to capture every single moment. We're living in the instagram, photo taking, and over sharing world. Enjoy the moment, and enjoy the memory you've created without the distractions.

3. Write it down. There will be things your children say that you think you'll never forget. But trust me, you will forget it. We all do. Write it down, tweet it, or Facebook it. I promise, you'll be thankful that you remember your child saying things like camote and handitizer.

4. Play outside. Take a walk, ride bikes, blow bubbles, lay in the grass - do it with them. Don't worry about the cold air, the sweaty heat, or the threatening rain. The kids won't care. They'll remember that you were there, and how it was the best day ever because you were.

5. Laughter is key. Everyone knows that laughter is the best medicine. And it's true even in motherhood. Laugh with your kids, laugh so hard you pee if you want. Life is hard, and sometimes we get lost in the mundane of everyday. But laughter? Makes it all go away, even just for a few minutes. Besides, little kid giggles & belly laughs are the best sounds in the world.

6. Don't hide the tears. There will be days where all you want to do is cry. It's okay. We've all been there. With all of Liam's food allergy struggles and Abigail's growth issues, I've cried. We're Mothers. We struggle, we cry. Don't hide your struggles, because life is full of them.

7. Say you're sorry. Motherhood is rough. We make mistakes, and we're often wrong. There is nothing more humble and powerful than a simple, I'm sorry. Ask for forgiveness, and move on. Show your kids that you're human. They'll be thankful.

8. Be involved. Listen to them. Play with them. Value their interests, and be there. They need that more than you know.

9. Hold them. Whether it's their hand, or their whole body. Hold it, and hold it as long as you can. A day will come when you no longer can pick them up and rock them, or that they'll reach for your hand. Cherish those moments for as long as you can. These sweet days are numbered.

10. Love them. The most important thing you can do as a mom, is love. Love your kids unconditionally, no matter what. Tell them you love them, as much as you can. And make them feel loved. There is no better, and no more important feeling in the world.

11. Be you. You need to know this. Do your best, and be real. Don't be the mom who smiles, or overachieves all the time. There will be bad days, and there will be amazing ones. Know that your kids need to see you be real, and be you. Fighting to be their mom, on the good and bad days.

12. Remember - YOU MATTER. You do. So remember that while what seems like the mundane routine you go through every day, you're awesome. You're a mom! You'll get through this, because you're awesome.

What have you learned being a mother?

Caitlin is a freelance writer, blogger, and stay at home mom of two from the Philadelphia area. Caitlin has a passion for photography, is an avid runner, and a Disney Travel Specialist, when she isn't busy being a mom or writing. You can find her parenting + lifestyle writings at thelittlemama.com. She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.