Eliza Hartley
When your child throws a tantrum, you might feel like a failure. When they refuse to eat their veggies, you may question your skills.
Parenting is tough, no doubt.
But, let’s not forget, it’s not always about the big victories. Sometimes, the smallest gestures can tell you’re doing a good job.
Being a good parent doesn’t always mean being perfect. It’s about those little signs you may overlook.
So, here we are with eight subtle signs that show you’re a good parent, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. Trust me, you might be doing better than you think.
1) You’re their safe space
That rush you feel when your child runs into your arms after getting scared?
That’s not just relief, that’s trust.
In the chaotic world of a child, you’re their anchor. When they’re overwhelmed, scared, or just need a hug, they turn to you.
Sure, it might feel like you’re just doing your job. But really, providing comfort and security? That’s a big deal.
It shows that you’ve created an environment where your little one feels safe, secure, and loved. They know they can count on you to be there for them.
And honestly? That’s pretty much Parenting 101.
If your child sees you as their safe space, take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You’re doing great!
2) You practice patience
Ah, patience. The unspoken hero of parenting.
Let me share a little story. Just the other day, my four-year-old decided that it would be a great idea to empty an entire bottle of ketchup onto the new white rug.
Was I happy about it?
Of course not. But instead of reacting out of anger, I took a deep breath, reminded myself that she’s still learning, and discussed with her why we don’t use ketchup as rug paint.
Parenting is full of these moments. Moments where you have the choice to lose your temper or take a deep breath and react with patience.
If you’re finding yourself choosing patience (even if it’s not every time), that’s a sign you’re doing something right. After all, teaching through kindness always has a longer lasting impact.
3) You let them make mistakes
It’s a tough call, but sometimes, letting your child make mistakes is the best thing you can do for them.
Did you know that children who are allowed to make mistakes and face the consequences tend to develop better problem-solving skills?
Instead of swooping in and fixing everything, letting them handle their own small challenges can teach them resilience and independence.
So, next time your child struggles with a puzzle or spills milk while pouring, take a step back. Let them figure it out.
This approach might be tough to watch, but it’s one of the subtle signs that you’re raising a self-reliant individual.
4) You listen to them
Listening. It sounds simple, but it’s more than just hearing the words they say.
It’s about giving them your full attention, valuing their opinions, and acknowledging their feelings. Even when they’re telling you a 20-minute story about their favorite cartoon character.
When you actively listen to your child, you’re showing them that their thoughts and feelings matter. And this can boost their self-esteem and confidence in remarkable ways.
So, if you find yourself nodding and engaging in conversations about the most random topics, well done! You’re teaching your child that their voice is important. And that’s a sign of good parenting.
5) You’re not afraid to show affection
This one hits close to home. I’ve always been a big believer in the power of affection.
I make it a point to hug my kids every day, to tell them I love them, and to show them that it’s okay to express love and kindness openly.
Affection isn’t just about making your child feel loved and secure. It’s also about teaching them how to express their feelings in a healthy way.
If you’re like me, constantly showering your kids with hugs, kisses and words of affection, it’s a good sign you’re doing this parenting thing right.
Don’t hold back on showing love. Trust me, they’ll remember it.
6) You let them be bored
In today’s busy world, it might seem like good parenting means filling every moment of your child’s day with activities and entertainment.
But here’s the thing: boredom can be beneficial.
When kids are left to their own devices, they’re forced to get creative. They make up games, they explore, and they learn how to entertain themselves.
So next time you’re tempted to turn on the TV or hand over a tablet when your child complains about having nothing to do, resist the urge.
Let them embrace the boredom. It’s a subtle sign that you’re fostering creativity and independence.
7) You admit when you’re wrong
Nobody’s perfect. Not even parents.
It’s easy to assume that as a parent, you always need to have all the answers. But the reality is, we all make mistakes.
Admitting when you’re wrong doesn’t make you weak. In fact, it sets a powerful example for your child.
It teaches them that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them and apologize when necessary.
If you’re the type of parent who can own up to their mistakes and say “I’m sorry” to their child, give yourself a pat on the back. It’s a sign of strength and humility – two key traits of being a good parent.
8) You love them unconditionally
At the end of the day, there’s one thing that truly matters – your unconditional love for your child.
Whether they make you proud or drive you crazy, whether they succeed or fail, your love for them never waivers.
This unwavering love provides a sense of security and belonging that will help them grow into confident and happy individuals.
Loving your child unconditionally, through the good times and the bad, is the subtlest yet most powerful sign that you’re a good parent.
Embracing the journey of parenthood
If you’ve read this far, hopefully, you’ve realized that being a good parent doesn’t always mean having all the answers.
It’s those little things – the patience, the listening, the unconditional love – that truly make a difference.
Parenting is less about perfection and more about connection. It’s about showing up for your child, even when things get tough.
It’s about creating a safe space where they can grow, learn and make mistakes.
So, next time you question your parenting skills, remember this: If your child feels loved and safe, if they know they can count on you no matter what, you’re doing something right.
Being a good parent isn’t about ticking boxes or meeting societal expectations. It’s about being there for your child in the ways that matter most.
And who knows? Your kids might just remember these little things as the biggest signs of your love.
