Parent-Tested Wisdom: The Best Advice for Raising Amazing Kids According to Members of Cuyahoga Parents Connect
Their words are full of encouragement and real-life wisdom because the best parenting tips often come from those going through it, just like you.
“Put yourself in your kiddo’s shoes. Especially when it comes to using your phone. It’s never fun to hang out with friends when they are preoccupied!” - Cassie
“Celebrate the small victories. It helps build confidence for bigger challenges”. - Stacy
“No two children are the same so you will likely need to adjust how you act/react to things they do and want. And be kind, because they are just tiny humans who have as much right to be in public as adults.” - Emily
“Be present! Put the phones down and interact with your littles.” - Chantelle
“Follow your child’s lead. These little people are so intuitive and oftentimes their bodies, reactions, thoughts/opinions can reveal so much to us about how to best parent them! Following my son’s lead for things like naps, meals, schedules/activities instead of what the latest trends are has proven invaluable to me.” - Lauren
“Expose your children to the world. Travel, try new food, let the music play, go see (new places), get messy, join that group, play outside in the rain and mud. If it doesn't hurt, try it at least once. You never know what will spark their curiosity.” - Wanderlust
“The best piece of advice I have learned is that my kids aren’t looking for perfection; all they want is for me to be present. It’s easy to get absorbed in technology or get busy, so I try to make a point to do one-on-one things without any distractions. It could be as simple as coloring with them, cooking, reading, or even just cuddling. Being present in the moment creates lasting memories.” - Melissa
“When a child hands you a book, stop what you are doing (the dishes can wait, the phone call too) and read to your child.” - Molly
“Right now my best piece of parenting advice is let kids learn through playing. It's ok if they make a mess. It can be cleaned. My kids are learning a lot by creating.” - Michelle
“Get involved in whatever way works best for you. Just be sure to make yourself known—otherwise, you and your child might miss out on some amazing opportunities.” - Karen
“You don’t have to do it alone! Be in community with other parents. You don’t have to do things the same way as them, but other perspectives are helpful. It makes you feel more normal when you see other parents going through the same things you are. And no matter how much we love our kiddos, we all need adult interaction and connection! Having a village is also super beneficial to your kiddos, from my personal experience too!” - Kayla
What’s the best parenting advice you’ve ever received? We’d love to hear it! Join the conversation in Cuyahoga Parents Connect, our parenting Facebook group, where you can share your wisdom, gain valuable insights, receive emotional support, ask for advice, and celebrate the joys of raising children in Cuyahoga County.