There’s a lot of good parenting advice out there. It can be hard to know what advice to follow, what advice to ignore, and leads to questions like, do all parents seriously do this all the time?

Given all that, here are some practical tips:

1. Recognize that parenting advice should be taken as a guide, not as rigid rules. Every child and every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts as a parent and adapt advice to fit your specific situation.
2. Prioritize your child’s well-being: Amidst the overwhelming amount of advice, keep your child’s best interests at the forefront. Consider their individual needs, temperament, and developmental stage when making decisions. Your child is the expert on themselves, and paying attention to their cues can guide your parenting choices.
3. Don’t compare yourself to others: Remember that parenting is not a competition. It’s easy to feel inadequate when comparing yourself to other parents who appear to have it all figured out. Focus on your own journey, strengths, and progress as a parent, rather than constantly comparing yourself to others.
4. Give yourself permission to make mistakes: Parenting is a learning process, and mistakes are inevitable. Instead of being hard on yourself when you stumble, view it as an opportunity for growth. Learn from your missteps, make amends if needed, and use the experience to become a more compassionate and resilient parent.
5. Find what works for your family: Experiment with different approaches and strategies until you find what works best for your family dynamics. It’s okay to combine advice from various sources or even discard advice that doesn’t resonate with you. Trust yourself and focus on creating a harmonious and loving environment for your child.
6. Seek support and guidance when needed: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talk to trusted friends, family members, or professionals who can provide a listening ear, perspective, or advice. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can make a significant difference in navigating the challenges of parenting.
7. Take care of yourself: Remember that you are an essential part of your child’s life, and your well-being matters too. Prioritize self-care by making time for activities that recharge you physically, mentally, and emotionally. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for your child.

In the end, parenting is a journey of discovery, growth, and adaptation. Trust yourself, be kind to yourself, and embrace the uniqueness of your own parenting style. Your love, care, and presence are what truly matter to your child.