Mother's Day
This Mother's Day, we wanted to share the most valuable advice we received as parents. We know that caregiving can be hard. Of course, we are grateful for our children and love them unconditionally; this isn't about them (even though it is actually all about them) but about us Moms! We know we can learn from each other's experiences. How can you make little changes that will significantly impact your experience as a mom? Listen to these tips and tricks, shared by mothers at all stages, and see if any are a good fit for you! What we are going to share isn't the type of advice you receive from strangers in the grocery store; this is helpful information that you can incorporate into your everyday life to make motherhood just a bit easier!
The Importance of Motherhood
There is nothing like the experience of motherhood. From the moment you find out you're expecting, everything changes. Now, your most important job has begun: bringing a child into this world and helping them grow and develop into who they're meant to be. Motherhood can be challenging, but it comes with many rewarding moments, like when your child first says "mama," when they take their first step, when they perform in their first concert, and those bittersweet moments, like their graduation. For all of the moments mentioned above and the sweet moments in between, it is our job as mothers to guide our children, teach them right and wrong, and encourage their passions. We play a giant role in shaping their childhood, and while sometimes the days feel like they stretch on forever, at some point, it truly starts to feel like the years go by quickly.
"There is no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one." -Jill Churchill
"If I were asked to define motherhood, I would have defined it as love in its purest form. Unconditional love." -Revathi Sankaran
"Enjoy the company of your kids because it flies by."-Maureen North
"Being a Mom has made me so tired. And so happy." -Tina Fey
It Takes A Village
At Make It Cute, we strongly believe in finding your people, or your village, to make it through motherhood. Having this village is an integral part of feeling validated and supported. Sometimes, we need friends to tell us exactly what to do. For example, when we've gone back and forth a hundred times and can't decide what feeding style we will use with our baby, we may want a friend who will step in and suggest a plan. Sometimes, we need friends who are sounding boards, allowing us to talk out our thoughts and feelings to help us process them. Sometimes, we need friends who will reflect on what we are doing right in our parenting when we feel unsure. Having a support system to lean on is extremely helpful in moments of doubt.
An important part of the motherhood journey is having an outlet to get advice or just to vent. Our three founders are lucky to have each other. They are childhood friends who began their motherhood journey at the same time. They had a built-in support system from the start of parenthood, but we know that isn't always the case. Sometimes, you need to be proactive to find your crew. If you're looking for ways to find your village, keep reading for our suggestions.
Where to Find Your Village
There are many ways to find your village throughout motherhood. You may find yourself in a different stage of life than some of your friends, entering parenthood before the rest of the group, having moved to a new town without your support system, or just looking to expand your circle to include more Moms who have "been there, done that."
When you're looking to find new "mom friends," there are lots of places to start:
Baby and Me Classes: These are offered in many locations, such as gyms, libraries, dance studios, community centers, etc.
Your child's daycare or school: If your child is in school, attend the events they offer! You're guaranteed to meet people who have kids in the same stage as yours.
Peanut App: Like a dating app, but for mom-friends.
Friends of Friends or Colleagues: Mention to your friends/colleagues that you'd love to meet more families with kids your age; simply asking around can sometimes lead to great connections.
Social Media: Many groups are dedicated to parenthood if you search by your town or county. Instagram is a great way to create a virtual community of like-minded Moms as well.
Local Events: Check out your local newspaper's event calendar for upcoming events, either specifically for Mom activities or family-friendly outings
Stroller Strides: These fitness meet-ups are organized by FIT4MOM and promote the classes using the slogan: "Find A Village Near You."
Tried and True Mom Tips
- Let them see you clean: This Motherly article breaks down the benefits of making household tasks visible to your children.
- Have a bag packed: Even past the diaper-bag years, having a bag packed and ready to go is a great way to eliminate stress when it's time to walk out the door. Water bottles, an extra sweater per child, hand sanitizer, wipes, and some snacks are great go-to items to include, regardless of your child's age.
- Time block: Use the time-blocking system to complete tasks efficiently. If you purposefully set a time to complete a task, you're less likely to become distracted, which leads to greater productivity.
- Add music: Need to change the vibe in the house, car, or even the yard? Pull out your phone and play some music to fit your needs. If you need a calmer mood, go with something soft and soothing. If you want to get kids (and maybe yourself) out of a funk, play something upbeat and fun to encourage a mood shift.
- High-quality toys: Invest in high-quality items that span many ages and serve multiple purposes. Open-ended toys, like indoor playhouses, are particularly worthwhile because they provide endless play possibilities.
- Sittervising: This article by Verywell Family sums up the newest parenting trend, which could save parents from burnout while teaching kids to engage in more independent play.
- Buy a rainbow: Early childhood is filled with celebrating holidays and spirit days galore. Get your child shirts in every primary color in their current size. They can wear them regularly in their wardrobe, and when a spirit day pops up at daycare or school, you won't be running out to the store the night before! You're also setting yourself up for success with outfits for holidays (e.g., green for St. Patrick's Day, red for Valentine's Day, etc.)!
Spotlight on Make It Cute Founder's Advice
Benefits of Using Tried and True Methods
Relying on Moms who have been there before has tons of advantages. You're saving yourself time and mental energy by leaning on those who have figured out the tricks of the trade. You know these methods can be effective since they have been used before. Of course, every child is different, so what works for one may not work for yours. It is natural to feel unsure of which route to take when encountering a new parenting situation. In these moments, count on those who have been there before. It may just save your sanity.
Bonus Hacks
- Keep a storage bin in the car with wipes, extra clothes, a first aid kit including children's Tylenol or Motrin, and a blanket/towel.
- Use a blanket for easy playtime cleanup. Place a large blanket under your child while they're building blocks or playing with cars or trains. When it's time to clean up, grab the corners of the blanket and easily put everything away at once.
- Use cupcake liners: you can serve snacks, keep ice-pops from dripping, keep your car cup holders clean, and more.
- Use the "No Fold" method. When putting away your child's laundry, sort into types of clothes (pjs, pants, shirts, etc.) and simply place them in the drawer where they belong without folding.
- Have a "busy bag" to entertain kids when you're out and about, like during restaurant trips or waiting at the doctor's office. For young kids, include hands-on options like this sustainably made wild animal set, trains, sticker books, or this Montessori Light Board. For kids a bit older, keep crayons and a notebook accessible to keep them engaged.
Make It Cute
With six children between our three co-founders, we are proud to be part of the "Mom Club." We know how crucial it is to rely on other women who have been here before us and how equally important it is to pass on helpful advice to other Moms in our circle. Running a company while raising a family is not always easy, but it is better when you connect with those who have done this parenting thing before. We're committed to making products that make your life easier. When you make a purchase from Make It Cute, you can rest assured we've done our research. Our products are earth-friendly, developmentally appropriate, and provide endless fun and entertainment for your kids.
Connect With Us
Connect with Make It Cute on Instagram @makeitcutekids to learn more about our playhouses, the founders, and ways to make parenting a little bit easier!