things i'm not so chill about

ALSO: I hate parking lots

I’m not the fun parent.

My husband is.

But I like to think I’m more of the chill one when it comes to certain things. Though, let’s be real, I’m with my kids basically 24/7 so am I ever really chill?

Regardless, I came across this video that inspired me to reflect on the areas where I'm laid-back as a mom, but particularly the ones where I’m a bit more strict.

Let's take a look at my three non-negotiables.

Having Manners

This is a must. It’s always please and thank you. Always! Personally, I think the best way to teach this is to lead by example. Whenever I ask my daughter to get me something, I make sure to add the word “please.” Kids absorb everything like sponges, so I want mine to absorb good manners into their daily lives.

Here’s some food for thought: Manners aren't just rules; they're about showing respect to others. When we use phrases like "please" and "thank you," we're acknowledging the value of the person we're interacting with and the effort they've made.

I believe that teaching manners isn't just about raising polite children; it's about shaping the kind of adults they'll become. The values they learn now will stay with them for life which will eventually influence how they interact with others.

Parking Lots

Parking lots are a danger zone to me. It feels like anything can happen. Irresponsible drivers are everywhere, distracted pedestrians, and little kids darting out from between cars—it’s a recipe for disaster.

That’s why I’ve made it a non-negotiable rule for my kids: either I will tell them to hold my hand tightly, or if I need my hands free to manage groceries or other tasks, they know to put their hands on the car. I call this Hands On The Car. Creative, right?

By making it a routine, my kids understand the importance of staying close in parking lots. Eventually it will become second nature to them. And the peace of mind it brings me is invaluable. Plus, it's a great opportunity for them to learn about responsibility and staying aware of their surroundings.

Brushed Hair

Making sure my kids brush their hair is important to me. It's not about impressing others, but about teaching them to take pride in their appearance. When your hair is neat, you feel good about yourself, and it helps set a positive mood for the day.

Starting the day with brushed hair is like a small victory. It boosts confidence and helps them tackle whatever comes their way. Additionally, it's a way of showing self-care and respect for themselves.

Side note: My kids are 2 and under. Yes, they could probably care less about “a confidence boost” or “self-care”. But I believe it’s important to start early even if they don’t completely understand what’s going on.

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What are some things you're strict about as a parent? And what are some things that you're more relaxed about?