02 May Joys of Parenting

Throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month, we highlighted positive childhood experiences and the highs and lows of parenting. We encouraged families to share their stories of a memory that stuck with them, parenting ups and down, a moment when they were a “good enough parent,” or a memory from childhood, in an effort to remind parents that they aren’t alone and that they’re doing the best they can. Check out these special memories from your fellow Kentuckians.

“Growing up, I used to spend so much time with my Grandma Bessie. We would drink coffee late at night, play Rook as teammates, and dance in the kitchen. She was and still is one of my greatest role models!” Hannah E

“When I saw this I just had to take a photo. My son, Mason, proving he has not outgrown his love of climbing into the toilet paper at Kroger – he declared himself the “king of the toilet paper!” – Anonymous, KY Parent

“Overcoming failure” (Tough moment turned win)
When we first found out we were having a baby boy, the first thought was ” I don’t know if I am ready for this!?” But when I held him in my arms all I could think of was “Your dad and I are going to make sure that you are always safe and protected from the world.”  I wanted to be able to fix everything for my son, any boo-boo he had. But when we lost his dad, my husband, I failed my son in the way I handled the loss and grief. Today, I am brave enough to admit I’m human and have shortcomings and use this to help others in the world know they are not alone, especially with their trauma and grief. I was able to turn my negative into a positive by helping advocate for others. My parenting fail is now a win because I am modeling empathy, understanding, and love for others and using my journey to help others. – Theda, KY SEAT Member

“Parenting can be tough, but I’m here for the ride” (Positive moment)
My dad wasn’t very involved when I grew up and I always worried I might end up like him. I was reminded of this fear when I became a stepmom to an 8-year-old. Being a stepparent can be a wild ride, but a positive experience was the day my stepson asked, “Can I call you Mom?” In that moment, I felt accepted, loved, and like I was truly making a difference in his life. Being a good parent isn’t about being perfect. There will be bumps in the road and moments of doubt, but those moments of joy, those “Mom” moments, make it all worth it. – Anonymous, KY SEAT Member

“Not just” (Parenting Moment)
My journey as a stepparent had its share of highs and lows but let me assure you: it was worth every moment. I entered my step-son’s life when he was just 13 years old. He is autistic and possesses a unique blend of kindness, humor, and bluntness—a combination that instantly endeared him to me. When I married his dad, he was so thankful he cried. It was then I knew I wasn’t just a “step,” I was a parent who stepped up. – Brandi, KY SEAT Member

“My teacher is in jeopardy” (Laugh)
While we were waiting for the morning school bus to arrive, my first grader wondered out loud if they would have a substitute teacher again. She said her teacher had been out for days because he was in jeopardy. I asked her twin brother if their teacher was sick or on vacation (was he on the game show?!). Upon further questioning, I realized she meant “jury duty,” or, in her words, “when there’s a judge and someone is guilty or innocent.” – Valerie Frost, KYA/KY SEAT