There are countless controversial parenting topics out there in this world. From breastfeeding to vaccinations, everyone has an opinion for what’s right and wrong. I KNOW there are controversial things I do as a parent and I’d be a liar if I said I’ve never judged another Mom. At the end of the day, all that matters is my children are safe, healthy, happy, and loved.
Take my Baby to a Bar
Breweries and vineyards are becoming more kid-friendly everyday. However bringing a baby to a drinking establishment still remains a controversial parenting decision. There are family bathrooms, play areas, and often events scheduled around children in mind. Overall, is there anything really wrong with a Mom or Dad wearing a baby while they drink a glass of wine? As long as I’m not drinking and driving, it can’t be that bad to bring a baby to a bar.
Co-Sleeping
Parenthood is all about survival. If you have a child that refuses to sleep for weeks on end, you do what you have to do to survive. Both of my daughters were terrible sleepers so many nights they slept between us. I’m not saying co-sleeping is the most safe option for a baby/toddler who won’t sleep. But if you’re going on 3 hours of sleep a night for the sixth day in a row and the only place your baby will sleep is with you, so be it.
Breastfeeding in Public
As a Mom who once had to nurse her baby on a dirty bathroom floor, I’m all about breastfeeding in public. There is no reason anyone should have to eat next to a toilet. I nursed both of my daughters whenever they were hungry, regardless of my location. Don’t get me wrong though, I always covered myself while nursing for there’s something to be said about baring a naked breast in a restaurant.
Check out a non controversial parenting post: A Mom’s Struggle with Adapting to the Next Stage of Childhood
Allow a Pacifier
There’s no shame in the pacifier game in my motherhood guide book. A pacifier can provide comfort when Mom and Dad can not, especially for my breastfed babies. Both of my daughters had pacifiers until they were two and a half. Ailey actually had a pacifier until she was well over three years old. We know prolonged use can effect their teeth, but our daughters are just fine.
Feed My Kids Fast Food
Fast food is never my first choice when it comes to feeding my kids, but desperate times call for desperate measures. If we are taking a road trip or have a busy days of extracurricular activities, Chik-fil-A is what’s for dinner.
Hold My Daughter Back from Kindergarten
I didn’t know there was anything wrong with holding my daughter back from Kindergarten, but some parents disapprove of my choice. Annabelle qualified for Kindergarten at age four, but my husband and I decided she should stay in preschool another year. There is something to be said about rushing a child into school if they’re not emotionally ready.
There is no such thing as a perfect parent, so just be a real one.
There isn’t any reason a Mom should feel pressured by society to change her parenting ways if she isn’t breaking any laws. Trust your instincts, teach your children to be kind, and do whatever you can to keep them safe.
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