If you’ve ever collapsed on the couch after bedtime thinking, “Am I even doing this right?” — congratulations, you’re probably a great parent. =) The fact that you care enough to question yourself already speaks volumes. I look back sometimes and cringe at some of my mistakes, like the time I sat 9-month-old John on the dryer when I checked the laundry and he fell off and almost hit his head (I grabbed his leg right before he landed, whew). Or not realizing that he struggled with reading in Kindergarten because he needed glasses (how did I not know he couldn’t see well?). Oh, I can list soooo many. 😉 But I’ve done a lot right too. Yet we parents are really good at questioning ourselves about our parenting abilities, so I thought maybe we could use a reminder of all we’re doing right!
Let’s look at some real signs you’re doing an amazing job — even if your minivan smells like chicken nuggets and spilled apple juice.
1. Your Kids Don’t Think You’re a Villain in their Life Story (Most of the Time)
No amount of Instagram-worthy lunches or themed birthday parties can replace this one thing: your child knows they are loved. Research shows that strong emotional bonds lead to higher confidence and better mental health (Harvard University Center on the Developing Child).
2. You are the General Contractor of your Child’s Educational Future
Whether it’s reading bedtime stories, encouraging curiosity, or choosing a high-quality academic early childhood program, you’re showing your child that learning matters. And then there’s everything else. Like buying groceries, saving for a Christmas gift fund months in advance (and bringing your lunch to work instead of going out because it gets you closer to your goal), planning your child’s next doctor appointment and so very much more. Your child would be lost without you! 6 Ways to Know You are a Good Parent
3. You’re Human… and Your Kids See It
Good moms and dads don’t have to be perfect — in fact, perfection is overrated. When you lose your temper and say, “I’m sorry, I was frustrated,” you teach empathy and emotional intelligence.
Our Jarrell Montessori teachers follow that same philosophy: mistakes are learning opportunities! In fact, my husband (a wood craftsman) often says that there is no character in perfection, that it’s the imperfections that make something beautiful. 11 Signs You’re a Good Parent (Even if you Think You Aren’t)
4. You Let Their Weird Shine Bright
Every child has their own quirks that makes them one-of-a-kind…and you nurture it. Whether your child is obsessed with dinosaurs, art, or building towers taller than themselves, you give them space to be who they are. When my son, John, was around 5 years old, he wanted to wear his pirate halloween costume. So we decided to let him, thinking it wouldn’t last long. (Famous last words.) He wore it to playdates to HEB to get his allergy shots, he wore that thing constantly. That obsession drove us nuts sometimes but looking back on it, I’m so very glad we allowed it. It’s one of my fondest memories.
5. You’ve Built a Mom Squad (Even if It’s Just Grandma and the Neighbor)
Great moms know they can’t do it alone. You surround your child with people who care — family, friends, church, and a supportive school community who wants to partner with you.
You’re Reading This Blog Post
The fact that you want to know if you are worthy, that you are interested in making sure you are doing right by your kiddo, that is the biggest indicator of all. If your child feels loved, safe, and supported… if you’re trying your best most of the time even when you’re exhausted or frustrated or just need some “me” time… you’re doing GREAT. Life can be full of disappointments and messy, but when you put your child first more often than yourself, they feel it and know you care. And that’s what they’ll remember.
~ Shannon Black, Founder/Co-Owner of Jarrell Montessori
