Parenting is a journey full of surprises, challenges, and those little moments of magic that keep us going. One of the best things I’ve learned since becoming a parent is this: the richest source of parenting wisdom isn’t expert manuals or fancy books—it’s the honest, sometimes quirky advice from other parents who’ve been in the trenches. I reached out to a circle of friends and fellow moms and dads, gathering their most valuable tips. Here are ten of their most surprising and practical nuggets of wisdom, perfect for anyone navigating the beautiful chaos of raising kids.
1. Build Confidence Through Chores — Even If It’s Messy
One of the simplest ways to boost a young child’s confidence is by letting them join you in everyday chores like cooking or sweeping. Sure, at first, they might create more mess than they clean up. But there’s a special kind of joy and pride that lights up their faces when they finally master a task—whether that’s pouring pancake batter without spilling or gathering dust into a tidy little pile. These small victories build skills and self-esteem that last long after the mess is cleaned up.
2. Distract Picky Eaters with Games at Dinner
Picky eating can be a serious mealtime struggle. One creative mom, Abbey, found a secret weapon: board games at the dinner table. When kids are focused on their next Connect Four move or strategizing in Chinese Checkers, they often forget to resist new textures or foods they’ve suddenly decided to dislike. This trick has worked wonders for kids between five and seven, turning dinner into a fun, distraction-filled experience that gently encourages trying new things.
3. Film More Videos Than You Think You Need
Photos are precious, but videos capture moments in motion and emotion that still pictures can’t. Ruth advises parents to take tons of videos—so many that you might even feel embarrassed by how many you have. Those little clips—like a baby’s wiggly bum during their final crawling days—become priceless memories that you’ll treasure forever.
4. Greet Your Child with Delight Every Morning
Starting the day with warmth and joy can set the tone for your child’s entire day. Miranda shares how her own mother greeted her with delight every morning, a habit she continues with her own kids. You don’t have to be “on” all day, but making that first connection with a smile or warm greeting can make a profound difference in how your child feels about the world and themselves.
5. Let Kids Fail — It’s Okay and Important
Failure is a tough pill to swallow for any parent, but it’s a crucial part of growing up. Miranda also emphasizes the importance of letting kids experience failure. It builds resilience, teaches problem-solving, and fosters independence—even if it’s hard to watch in the moment.
6. Don’t Fight Tantrums—Stay Calm and Wait It Out
Loryn offers a gentle reminder that you can’t stop a full-blown tantrum once it’s underway. The best you can do is acknowledge your child’s feelings and be patient. This can mean waiting for a very long time. During these emotional storms, focusing on your own calmness—deep breaths and a steady presence—helps your child learn to self-regulate over time. Be kind to yourself and your child; emotional growth is a process.
7. The “Nap Cap” Trick for Sleepy Babies
Caroline shares a brilliant hack she calls the nap cap. When her baby was overstimulated and struggling to sleep, she would pull the front of a hat down over the baby’s eyes like an eye mask, then rock or walk until the baby drifted off. This simple trick works especially well in bright, distracting environments like airports or restaurants.
8. Model Reading by Reading Around Your Kids
Caroline also notes that simply reading around her boys—ages six, four, and two—has made a big difference in their love of books. Whether they’re watching a show, drawing, or playing outside, she’s nearby with her own book, demonstrating reading as a normal, enjoyable part of daily life. Her six-year-old is now an independent reader who even asks for cozy reading time. Sometimes the best way to raise readers is by quietly showing them how it’s done.
9. Unplug from Overwhelming Parenting Advice
Edith offers a reminder to avoid getting drained by the constant flood of parenting advice on social media. It’s easy to feel like you’re never doing enough when you scroll through endless tips on Instagram or newsletters. Her advice? Unfollow or mute those accounts and trust your own instincts—you’re doing great as you are.
10. Don’t Sweat Changing Your Parenting Plans
Jenny encourages new parents not to beat themselves up if they find themselves on a parenting path they hadn’t originally planned—whether that means using a pacifier longer than expected or not always eating dinner at the table as a family. Kids are surprisingly adaptable, and family routines can evolve naturally over time. Nothing is set in stone, and flexibility is key.
Final Thoughts
These ten tips aren’t about perfection; they’re about connection, patience, and small moments of joy. They remind us that parenting isn’t about rigid rules but about learning alongside our kids, sometimes making mistakes, and cherishing those unexpected wins. What’s your best parenting tip or unexpected discovery? The conversation is wide open, and every parent’s insight helps light the way.
