Top Parenting Myths Debunked

We’ve all heard the parenting myths. Even before you become a parent, you will hear a number of “rules”, many dos and dont’s, and too many “truths about parenting” that cannot be questioned at all.

Yet, as you become a parent, you see more easily that many of those are misleading. Should I even mention how many times have I heard such things only to get completely different impressions through my own experiences?

I’ve decided to share some of the most common parenting misconceptions, hoping the article will encourage you to drop the harmful myths imposed on us in the mainstream narratives.

Here is a list of the top parenting myths:

Myth
The best parents have to sacrifice their careers.

Truth

Being fulfilled in all the important areas of your life also help you become a better parent. There is enough time for both your family life and career when you are determined to organize well.

You don’t want to use your children as an excuse for not pursuing your business goals. Plus, career success usually comes with a higher salary and who could resist a better financial stability for their family!

Myth

Once you have kids, you can say goodbye to a normal sex life.

Truth

After the labor, you might experience a short-term drop of your sex drive. It is a natural thing. This doesn’t mean you cannot continue with passion and intimacy later. Many people believe parents don’t have the time or energy to have sex, yet, sometimes it sounds more as an excuse for losing the passion.

Myth

You are either born a good parent or not.

Truth

Just like anything else in our lives, parenting requires us to develop a set of skills. Yes – we can develop them and learn along the way. There is always room for improvement, that’s what all the parenting books and blogs are for. You can also learn from your own mistakes, of course.

Myth

It is natural for mothers to have more responsibilities around kids than fathers.

Truth

You are in it together and it shouldn’t be a one-sided activity. This belief has, of course, emerged from the centuries of seeing women as mothers and housewives only. Many studies have proven the importance of the presence of a father in children’s lives, and if science says mother and father should participate equally share parenting responsibilities, you can guess how harmful this myth is.

Myth

Showing too much love will only spoil your child.

Truth

Showing lots of love will help your child develop emotional stability. You can show love and still discipline your child. There is nothing wrong with building a safe, supportive environment filled with love – on the contrary. That’s how your child learns about empathy and appreciation.

Myth

Children have to be monitored all the time.

Truth

Yes, the world may be more dangerous than it used to be. Yet, there are ways to keep your children safe when they grow up without having to keep them under your surveillance 24/7.

First things first, it is crucial to teach them how to be cautious and avoid dangerous situations. Another essential is building an honest relationship with your kids, so you could trust them they will behave properly and stay safe.

Myth

Having children and a tidy home at the same time is impossible.

Truth

Not all kids go around the house to make a mess all the time, especially if you have taught them the importance of keeping their space clean. If you teach your kids to be responsible and give them chores from an early age, they will also learn how to tidy up once they are finishing with some activities.

While your kids are still little, you can designate a certain place in your house for them to play, so you can localize “the mess”. Later on, you shouldn’t have problems teaching them to put things back into their place.

Myth

Having kids means no more sleeping!

Truth

When you first become a parent, you may experience some challenges in organizing your sleep schedule.  Yet, it gets easier as your child grows. You can always ask for a help from your partner, parents or friends to take care of your child so you could get a nice nap. Planning is everything!

Myth

Parents cannot afford time for self-care.

Truth

This myth goes as far as claiming that parenting will make you fat. The truth is, you can still catch a few moments to exercise, go to a salon, have a bubble bath or meditate. In fact, as a parent, you should boost the self-care activities in order to stay energized enough to take care of your kids. Once again, proper planning is everything!

As a parent, you will probably debunk many of the myths yourself. Don’t let those fears other people are trying to impose on you prevent you enjoy the wonderful parenting journey.

What is the most interesting parenting myth you have heard? Let’s discuss it in the comments below!

For more parenting tips: Positive Discipline: Parenting your Child the right way