Things I Wish I Knew Before Toddlerhood
That he would want to wear the same shirt over and over again—and that it would cause a full-blown meltdown when it ended up in the dirty laundry bin.
That he’d become a picky eater.
That the tantrums and meltdowns—especially in public—would leave me feeling embarrassed or judged. But eventually, I learned to hold my head high and let it roll off my shoulders.
That toddlers can get incredibly angry and even aggressive. I didn’t know he’d hit or scratch himself, or wrestle with such big feelings that it’s hard to witness—let alone know how to help. But eventually, we found our rhythm, and he became open to calming techniques.
That one day, out of nowhere, he’d insist on doing everything “ALL BY HIMSELF.”
That he’d want to make friends, and would show kindness—even when other kids didn’t. I wish I had known how to navigate those moments because watching him feel hurt was heartbreaking.
That he’d develop a clear parent preference—and I wouldn’t always be the chosen one.
That my once fearless child would suddenly be afraid of the dark, or wake up from dreams about dinosaurs that felt so real they disrupted his sleep.
That some mornings, he’d stomp into the room angry before sunrise—and I’d sit up half-asleep, rocking him like clockwork, not even knowing why he was upset.
That even in fear, he’d still be willing to try.
That evenings would become negotiations—his favorite phrase: “Deal or no deal?”
That he’d love my mom the same way I loved my grandmother.
Honestly, there’s probably so much more I wish I knew. And I’m sure I’ve left things out—it's 6 a.m., my body is aching, I’ve had a migraine for two weeks, and my mouth is sore from new braces. My fibromyalgia and Hashimoto’s must be at war. Despite my usual rituals, nothing’s helping. But motherhood doesn’t pause.
It’s the best title I’ve ever had, even when it leaves me drained. And somehow, seeing my tiny human grow, or watching him smile—that’s enough to refuel me.
Raising kids is a constant learning curve. Expect the unexpected. Embrace it all. Because one day, they’ll grow up—and you’ll miss these little moments.
