The Biggest Mistakes That Parents Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Ok, not just new parents — this one applies to second, third, and fourth-time parents too. Let's be honest, as parents, we’re all learning as we go. We all make mistakes. MANY of them. Sometimes daily. From forgetting to pack extra diapers to calling our children the wrong names (yes, I’ve called my kids by the dog’s name more than once).

But if I had to pick the biggest mistake parents make, it’s this:

Comparison.

Instagram:

Let me start off by admitting that I’ve been there. When my daughter was born, I spent hours comparing her milestones to those of my friends' kids (or worse, to random babies on Instagram). From milestones to outfits, even down to how "put together" other moms seemed to be. It’s so easy to get caught up in the comparison game. You’re not alone if you’ve been there too.

Reality:

As a first-time mom (or even as a seasoned one), you can’t help but wonder, “Is my baby on track?” or “Am I doing this right?” The truth is, there isn’t one right way to do this parenting thing — and the same goes for sleep. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

Comparison is a thief of moments and memories. You’ll spend so much time comparing yourself to others that you might miss out on soaking in the special moments with your little one.

I love the advice from Leslie Anne Bruce in her book, You Are a Fcking Awesome Mom* — if you haven’t read it, you need to! 

Here’s a little gem from Chapter 13:

“We just all need to take a deep breath and remind ourselves that there are a hundred different ways to raise amazing kids, and just because someone is doing it differently from how we do it doesn’t mean that they’re doing it wrong. Most importantly, don’t let someone else have that power over you. Are they in your home? Did they carry your baby and bring him or her into the world? No, you did. You’re a motherfucking badass mom. You need to trust your mama instincts…”

💛 And I am 100% here for that. 💛

If you’re struggling with sleep, I totally get it. That’s why I created Sleepytime Solutions — sleep guides designed to help your baby (and you) get more rest, on your terms. No need to compare to other families’ routines when I’ve laid out a simple, gentle plan for you.

Oh, and mama — you’re doing awesome. Dada, you do too! 🙌

Sweet dreams,
Tegan Donahue
Mom of two | Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant | Owner of SleepytimeSolutions