When your child throws a tantrum in public, you might feel like you’re failing. When they refuse to eat their vegetables or brush their teeth, it’s easy to doubt your parenting skills.
But here’s something I’ve learned along the way: parenting is not a walk in the park, and feeling inadequate at times is part of the journey.
Still, you might be doing a much better job than you give yourself credit for. I’m going to share 8 signs that show you’re actually a great parent – even if it doesn’t always feel like it.
Because at the end of the day, being a great parent isn’t about perfection. It’s about understanding and growth – yours and your child’s.
It’s about being real, learning from your mistakes and showing up every day, even when it’s hard. So let’s dive in and explore these signs together.
1) You’re not afraid to show vulnerability
Parenting can be tough, overwhelming even.
And it’s okay to admit that. It’s okay to let your children see you struggle, to let them know you don’t have all the answers. The truth is, nobody does.
By showing your vulnerability, you’re not only teaching them that it’s okay to be human – to have weaknesses and make mistakes – but you’re also forging a stronger bond with them.
They’ll see you as someone they can relate to, someone who’s authentic and real. This authenticity is your strength, a beacon that will guide your children in their own journey.
So take a deep breath and remember: It’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s okay to be human. It’s okay to be you.
Embracing your vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of great parenting.
2) You celebrate their individuality
When my daughter was five, she insisted on wearing mismatched socks to school every day. Instead of colorful pairs, she loved the randomness – a polka dot sock paired with a striped one, a red sock with a blue one. It was her thing, her unique style.
At first, I worried about what other kids might say, but then I realized something vital: I needed to support and celebrate her individuality, not suppress it.
Encouraging your child to be themselves, with all their quirks and unique traits, is one of the greatest gifts you can give as a parent. It’s not just about socks or clothing choices; it’s about allowing them to express themselves and grow into the person they’re meant to be.
Celebrating their individuality is a clear sign that you’re doing great at this parenting thing.
3) You’re their safe haven
Being a parent means being a rock in the storm for your child. When things go wrong – be it a bad grade, a fight with a friend, or a scary dream – they turn to you for comfort and solace.
Interestingly, psychological studies show that children who have a secure base to return to are more likely to take healthy risks and explore their environment. This secure base can be you – their parent.
When your child knows they can rely on you no matter what, they are more confident to face the world and its challenges. They know that even if they fall, you’ll be there to help them get back up.
Being a safe haven for your child doesn’t mean protecting them from every little harm. Instead, it’s about providing them with the assurance that they’re loved and cared for, no matter what. And that’s a sure sign of great parenting.
4) You listen more than you talk
Active listening is perhaps one of the most underrated parenting skills.
When your child is speaking, are you truly hearing them? Are you giving them your undivided attention, or are you already preparing your response or advice in your head?
Sure, as a parent, you’ve gained wisdom and experience that you want to share. But sometimes, your child just needs to be heard. They need to voice their thoughts, their fears, and their dreams without immediate judgement or solutions.
By listening more than talking, you’re showing them that their words matter, that their feelings are valid. This not only strengthens your bond with them but also aids in building their self-esteem and confidence.
The next time your child wants to talk, take a moment. Listen. Truly listen. It’s a small act with a significant impact, and it’s a sure sign that you’re on the right track as a parent.
5) You embrace learning and growth
I admit, I don’t have all the answers. And I’m okay with that. In fact, I see it as an opportunity.
As a parent, I’ve learned that it’s okay not to know everything. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them.
Why? Because it’s not just about me. It’s also about showing my kids that everyone is a work in progress, that learning and growing are lifelong processes.
I want my kids to see that it’s okay to fail, to get back up and try again. To not be deterred by setbacks but see them as stepping stones towards growth.
So yes, I make mistakes. But I learn from them and move forward. And in doing so, I hope to inspire my kids to do the same.
If you too embrace learning and growth—both yours and your child’s—then you’re doing an excellent job as a parent. Trust me on this one.
6) You don’t always come to the rescue
It’s a natural instinct to want to protect your children from hardships and discomfort. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is to step back and let them handle it themselves.
When they’re facing a minor disagreement with a friend or struggling with a challenging task, it might be more beneficial in the long run to let them figure it out.
Now, I’m not suggesting you leave your child in distress. Instead, it’s about equipping them with problem-solving skills and resilience. It’s about allowing them to experience failure and learn how to bounce back.
By not always rushing to save the day, you’re teaching them independence and resilience—crucial life skills that will carry them far. It may seem tough, but this hands-off approach is often a sign of excellent parenting.
7) You set boundaries
Setting boundaries might seem like a buzzword, but it’s an essential aspect of parenting.
Boundaries provide a sense of security for your child. They help define what’s acceptable and what’s not, creating a safe and predictable environment for them to grow and learn.
Whether it’s a bedtime routine, rules about screen time, or expectations around behavior, setting clear and consistent boundaries shows that you care about their overall well-being.
But here’s the key: boundaries should be coupled with explanation and understanding. It’s important for your child to understand why these boundaries are in place.
That way, they’re not just rules set in stone; they’re guidelines that help them make better choices.
8) You love unconditionally
At the end of the day, the most significant sign that you’re a great parent is your unconditional love for your child. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t diminish with mistakes or disagreements. The kind of love that is present, even in silence.
It’s putting their needs before yours, even when you’re exhausted. It’s holding them close when they’re scared, even when you’re scared too. It’s believing in them, even when they don’t believe in themselves.
Unconditional love is the cornerstone of parenting. It’s what makes all the sleepless nights and challenging days worthwhile.
If your love for your child is unwavering and boundless, then rest assured, you’re doing a phenomenal job as a parent.
Embracing the journey of parenthood
If you’ve made it this far, you most likely recognize that being a great parent isn’t about perfection. It’s about authenticity, understanding, and resilience.
Parenting is a journey, a learning curve that bends and twists with every stage of your child’s life. It’s about growing alongside them, learning from your mistakes, and continuously striving to be better.
None of us are perfect parents, but the fact that you’re here, reading this, shows that you’re committed to this journey. You’re not just a parent; you’re someone who loves unconditionally, listens earnestly, and grows consistently.
So take a moment to reflect on this journey and pat yourself on the back. You are doing an incredible job. And that’s something truly worth celebrating.
