When pregnant with our first we’re so set that we’re going to rock this parent thing and probably do it better than all those other parents we’ve been watching do it before us. Then our THIRD KIND is born.
We have all these wonderful ideas in our head about how parenting can’t be as difficult or overwhelming as so many make it out to be.
So with that first kid we tend to be a little over the top. But then comes the third kid, and somehow our parenting takes a downhill slide.
Preparing for Baby
First Kid: I have to research every piece of baby gear and my kid is getting nothing but the best of the best.
Third Kid: What do they have on Craigslist that is still within it’s expiration date for now at least?
Feeding
First Kid: This kid is going to get the best with EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFED, pureed baby food, no preservatives or sugar for years.
Third Kid: Here’s a bottle of expired formula and some stale goldfish crackers, kid. If you’re still hungry later there are some cookies.
Bath Time
First kid: Bath every night with the soothing Johnson and Johnson BEDTIME wash for a great night’s sleep.
Third kid: Eh. I think the dog’s shampoo will work just fine this time. Or two. But at least you got a bath this week.
Expectations of Milestones
First Kid: You proudly share how much they’ve worked on conquering walking, three word sentences, advanced potty training, and completing prestigious preschool applications all by age one.
Third Kid: Do you think this kid really needs preschool?? He talks and he’s potty trained so he’s totally ready for KINDERGARTEN, right?
Playtime
First kid: I will do puzzles with you in the morning, read to you in the afternoon, and color with you in the evening.
Third kid: Here are some mason jars and plastic, go play outside, and entertain yourself.
Clothing
First kid: My kid is going to be the most fashionable kid on the playground in Baby Gap and Carters.
Third kid: This kid is not even getting new clothes from Wal Mart. Here’s a shirt your brother wore at about your age.
Adding Siblings
Having your second: How am I going to love another as much as I love this one? Will I still be able to give them the same amount of attention?
Adding the third sibling: I’m not going to have to take care of this one as much. The other two can deal with this one. Maybe I can finally get a bit of a break.
Expectations of Yourself as a Parent
First kid: I am going to be the best parent ever and will be a model parent to all other parents out there doing it wrong.
Third Kid: OMG,
I hope I f*&#$ survive!
How have your parenting style and expectations changed from the first kid to the third kid? Can you relate?