Remember that you hold your children's childhood in your hands, a childhood that will one day become a memory for them.

We live in a world where motherhood is often measured in achievements, progress, and comparisons.

In the park, a mother boasts that her little one is already walking, on social media someone shows that their daughter plays the piano very well and speaks two languages ​​fluently, while you wonder if you are doing something wrong.

In consultations I can feel the anguish of some mothers when they see that their baby does not have the same weight as their friend's child who feeds in a different way.

In this way we begin to raise children from fear, competition or self-imposed demands, forgetting that raising children is not about creating "perfect" human beings according to social standards, nor are they projects to be perfected, much less improved versions of ourselves; it is about lovingly accompanying them to be who they truly are: unique individuals with their own rhythms, different interests, and a path to walk.

It's easy to say but very difficult to put into practice in a society that applauds the "well-behaved" child who stands out. But what happens when your child is the shyest, or the slowest, or the most restless? They also deserve to feel good enough, to be seen and loved unconditionally.

Therefore, I invite you to let go of fear, pressure, and perfectionism, and to raise your child with trust, not control, because what they need is not to stand out, but to feel loved just as they are. This isn't to encourage mediocrity, but to lovingly and with discipline strengthen your child's character, no longer as their coach, but as their role model.

Raising children with love is not about raising them without limits, as these are necessary for a structure in your children's lives, so they know how to have good habits, have a daily routine to follow, responsibilities from a young age, but respecting their individuality and understanding that there is no such thing as a perfect child or mother.

I suggest some tips that can help you improve your parenting, accepting the individuality of your children:

1. Don't compare them (each child has their own pace)

2. Listen more, intervene less (listen to your children's opinions, without barriers, with eye contact, without screens, and with your guidance help them form their own opinion)

3. Value effort more than the result (Of course it is important to demand and encourage them to improve and achieve excellence, but don't let a grade be what defines your child)

4. Be an example, not a coach (being a mother is the best way to improve and unlearn incorrect habits in order to teach through example and thus be consistent with what you demand of them)

5. Be mindful of your language to avoid labeling (the labels you give your children will stay with them forever, don't use them)

6. Validate their emotions and allow them to make mistakes so they can learn (it's also important to allow them to feel frustrated so they can develop resilience and life skills).

Remember that their childhood is in your hands; make this the best stage of their lives so that they become emotionally healthy adults.

Dr. Maribel Cortez

Mom and Pediatrician: Pro-Breastfeeding and Attachment

10th Street 2-20 Prospere Building, Zone 14. Clinic 312

Tel: 38048321