There are a million ways to compare yourself to others as a parent, and everyone seems to have their own take on what good parenthood is. For example, maybe some people think that piercing their child’s ears is a negative choice, given how it’s painful for them and they can’t consent to it given their age. Some people might think it’s no big deal, and that a child old enough to speak in complete sentences and ask for things appropriately is able to understand when they want this done.
Either way, no matter what you choose, someone will have an opinion on it. But instead of dismissing yourself as a parent, it’s good to give yourself credit. If you’re loving, attentive, present, not afraid to discipline for your child’s safety, and do your best, unfortunately you’re a much better parent than some children are given.
This is especially true when it comes to money. If you’re struggling, that’s okay, the best childhood memories aren’t expensive. Here’s why:
Kids Remember The Time, Not The Cost
When you think back to your own childhood, odds are the fondest memories you have aren’t of the price tags attached, but the camping trips with soggy tents, the lazy Sundays baking cookies, or playing board games in your pajamas. Those are the moments that stick because they’re about connection, not spending or dealing with “products” that are overly priced.
This is obviously because children are wired to value attention, laughter, and love above anything you could buy them. As we get older and we have to justify our own affairs, it’s hard not to have a constant financial calculation going on in our heads. Sure, big days out are lovely if you can swing them, but they’ll get just as much joy from a puddle-stomping adventure in the local park, especially if they’ve got their trusty kids wellies on and you’re right there laughing with them. Trust us on that one.
Simple Adventures Are Often The Best Ones
You don’t need a trip to Disneyland or a brand-new theme park pass to make your kids feel special. It’s nice to begin packing a few sandwiches, grabbing a kite, and heading out to the nearest open field or park for a picnic, or just playing with your football or other toys while there.
You can also share a movie night, have a friend over for them to play with, and enjoy party games to celebrate an event. Note that only one of these examples has “consuming media” as one of the baseline points.
Gratitude Starts Early
Children who grow up understanding that fun, love, and happiness aren’t tied to how much money is spent are children who will value the important things later on and be less cost-oriented when hoping to plan out events. This is a good opportunity to show them gratitude and grace, even if a visit to their friends house isn’t replete with toys or if they connect with people who aren’t a fortunate as your average household may be. It’s a healthy mindset that can lead them into adulthood correctly.
With this advice, we believe you’ll understand yourself to be a great parent, which is never tied to cost or expense for being so.
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