I see you there in the check out line, saying no for the hundredth time.
I see you struggling to keep your kids busy so they won’t pull all the candy off the shelf that is strategically placed in the absolute worst spot for mom’s.
I see you picking up your toddler who is kicking and screaming, leaving all your groceries in aisle 9.
I see you, as your eyes look away in shame, but I wish you knew that I’m not judging you.
You see, whenever I hear the shrieking screams or the dramatic wails of a toddler, I look. Not with a look of judgement or concern or even pity, but with a look of solidarity.
Yes, your toddler may be making a scene, but it’s nothing I haven’t seen before. In fact, I currently have a front row seat to the terrible twos.
Tantrums, tantrums, everywhere…
After a few late nights and missed naps, my toddler is unable to calm his extreme emotions. So we’ve had a few good tantrums lately. In fact, I’ve even been avoiding going out in public with my toddler.
Recently, I thought I’d be smart and bring the leash shopping with us, just in case he needed it. (Don’t judge until you parent a runner!) But it backfired since he decided to just lay down on the floor in the middle of the mall, squealing “no no no…”
The other day I let him walk 4 steps from the stroller to his car seat, but he bolted through the parking lot and almost ran right into the street before I caught up to him. (See why I need the leash?) He’s going to win races, I tell ya! I have recently taken up jogging – mostly because I need to be able to keep up with him…
So, you’re not the only mama who’s carried her child to the car, kicking and screaming, or bribed her kids with candy if they will just sit quietly for five more minutes.
You got this, Mama
Whether you remain calm in the face of their meltdown or find yourself losing your temper yet again… You’re doing a great job.
Mama, I salute you. You got this.
However you choose to address your child’s behaviour, you’re an amazing mom. We all lose it once in awhile, #amiright?
Parenting is not easy. Especially parenting in public!
I think it’s time we learn to acknowledge each other in solidarity instead of judging each other’s parenting decisions. When you feel all eyes on you, you don’t need to hide away in shame. You don’t need to leave the store. You don’t need to feel embarrassed. Look at those other moms who may be looking at you. It’s ok. We know how it is.
In fact, we just might be taking notes on what to do with our next tantrum.
And if you see me running after my toddler, just give me Katniss Everdeen’s three finger salute…
