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13 things to remember while surviving life with little kids
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When the going gets rough, these 13 things will help you maintain some sanity. - photo by Emily Cummings
Your little kids are adorable, despite ear-piercing shrieks that fill the house in the wee hours of the morning. When you feel like screaming and shouting yourself, take a minute to breathe -- and to remember a couple of these things about your little ones.

Hard moments now make great stories later

Later on, that loud proclamation to all of Target about the intimate details of your married life will have you rolling with laughter. While this piece of advice doesnt do much for the present, anyone who has raised a child has stories that -- over time -- turned from mortal embarrassment to exuberant laughter.

Snuggle time is limited (as are their tantrums)

Little kids arent little forever. Though its true that tantrums in their toddler years may make a recurrence through teenage years, snuggle time likely wont. Its not easy to remember how precious this time is while they are young (and when theres more marker on walls than on paper), but take a deep breath and try.

Tears dont stain

Yes, you are there to soothe, comfort and console to a point. Learning to work it out, tough it out or cry it out wont stain clothing, carpet or couches. Sometimes all your kids need is to cry it out and move on. It puts the responsibility off your shoulders, and though its hard to listen to, a good cry can sometimes solve problems.

You are their world

Your children are watching your every move. The words you whisper under your breath (or a tad louder) are heard and are oftentimes repeated. Meditate, do some breathing exercises, or walk out of the room before you do or say something you will ultimately regret. Harsh words wont make you feel any better and certainly wont make haphazardly cut bangs grow out any faster.

Its a big deal (respectively)

There is no use crying over spilt milk, but its still stressful for a 2-year-old (hence the crying). When your biggest worries in life are centered around snack time, playtime and bedtime, spilt milk is a big deal. Taking a moment to realize how this seemingly insignificant event is rocking the world of your toddler can be motivation to be a little more patient with him or her.

Life can be scary

Acting out might be a way of coping with something that is bothering your little kiddo. Life can be a scary place, and kids might not have the vocabulary to communicate exactly how they are feeling. Though youd prefer a conversation over a tantrum, thats the stage your child is in; being frustrated isnt going to settle their worries.

Its all relative

Your kids are living in their own reality, unconcerned with the idyllic pages on Pinterest. You might be comparing yourself to the things you see online, but your children arent. Save yourself the trouble and stress of trying to make everything perfect. Your babies are just happy to spend time with you and to feel special and loved.

They love you even when they say they dont

No parent wants to hear I hate you come out of their childs mouth, but it happens. And thats OK. Your child is trying to express his or her anger and frustration the best way he or she knows how. We all have said things we don't mean.

It would be way easier to give in; but thats not how lessons are learned

It takes approximately 23 minutes longer for your little girl to walk down the street when you could carry her and be there in about three. While its going to be quicker to do the dishes yourself, or to clear the table on your own, constantly doing so will only teach your kids that they never need to pitch in. Lessons are learned when you dole out responsibility and independence.

Its OK to need a break

Being a parent is a full-time job that doesnt ever retire. Even when your children have kids of their own, you will always be Mom. In a job that lasts for decades, of course youll need a break now and then. Dont beat yourself up over needing a few hours away to catch some "me" time.

Things arent more important than your children

This phrase doesnt erase the dent in the car or bring back your string of pearls, but it is the truth. The quote Nothing else you will ever own is worth more than the love of your children is an easy mantra to remind you of something thats sometimes easily forgotten.

Your sense of humor is just as important as your patience

Parenting essentials include two things: patience and a sense of humor. In the thick of raising children and juggling life, dont lose either. Find some camaraderie with parents who have been able to laugh in very literal sticky situations on this Instagram account.

They will appreciate and apologize in time

An apology might come in the next few hours, or could take a few years' time. Once your kids grow up and are raising little ones of their own, their own eyes suddenly seem to be opened. Your dedication and sacrifice will be noticed and appreciated.

When things get hard, remember that you are so loved, and tomorrow is a new day.
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