Parenting is one of the most rewarding journeys, and at the same time, it’s also one of the most exhausting. There are those early mornings filled with questions and then the late nights where we need just one more drink of water. While the toddler and preschool years are a little crazy, they are also beautiful. Since September 12 is National Day of Encouragement, we thought it was the perfect time to encourage all of you parents. You are doing important, meaningful work, and your efforts mean the world to your kids, even if they aren’t the best at expressing that. On this National Day of Encouragement, let’s encourage each other as parents!
Why Encouragement Matters
Let’s think of encouragement as fuel. It gives us the energy to keep going when the days feel long or overwhelming. As parents, we pour encouragement into our children every day. We cheer on our kids when they try something new. When they’re frustrated, we’re there to comfort them. If our kids are discouraged, we remind them of their strengths. But quite often, we forget that we need encouragement too. That’s why it really is important to encourage each other as parents.
Encouragement is crucial for everyone. Hearing “You’ve got this,” or “You’re doing a great job,” can make the difference between a heavy day and a hopeful one. Unfortunately, we don’t always have someone there to lift us up like that. So let’s look at a few ways to build that skill for ourselves!
Simple Ways to Encourage Yourself
It may sound a little self-serving, but it’s actually a good way to take care of ourselves. When we have tools to keep ourselves positive and feeling valued, we end up parenting well. And that’s a win, right?
Celebrate Even Small Wins
So let’s celebrate those small wins we see in ourselves and in our kids. Did your child put on their shoes with only a little help? Did you stay patient through a meltdown? Those are both things worth noticing!
Remember It’s Only Temporary
Parenting struggles can feel like they will last forever. But we know that’s not true. Parents of teens remind us of how quickly these years are going to fly by. So let’s remind ourselves that this stage is temporary. The chaos won’t last forever, but the bond you’re building with your child will. And that weighs more than the struggles of today.
Value Your Own Role
We can resent our roles as parents. It’s easy to do in the trenches of everyday life. So it’s important to remember the value of your role as a parent. You are your child’s safe place, their teacher, their guide. Even on hard days, they can count on you to be there for them. What a big deal that is!
Encouraging Other Parents
As we learn to encourage ourselves, let’s make an effort to encourage other parents. In a world where we’re pretty good at judging one another, let’s do something different. Toddler and preschool parenting is a team effort, even when we don’t realize it. The other mom at drop-off, the dad in line at the grocery store, the grandparent chasing a toddler at the park – they all need encouragement too. A simple, “I know it’s not easy, but you’re doing great,” or “Hang in there!” might be just what they need at that moment. And then, they are more likely to encourage another parent too! So let’s encourage each other as parents!
Did you know that we have lots of resources for you at Signing Time? We love to help families communicate and grow together. Take a look at our free printables, educational resources, and Signing Time Dictionary. And of course, at My Signing Time, there are tons of fun, educational shows to help you have a break as a parent while knowing your child really is learning in a safe, ad-free platform.
So, if no one has told you today, you are doing an incredible job. Your love, patience, and presence are shaping your child’s world in ways you can’t always see right away. You’re rocking this parenting role, and you’re growing everyday in your own knowledge and skills. So let’s encourage each other as parents this National Encouragement Day. We think you’re pretty great!