There is no such thing as a perfect parent.  The feeling that we aren’t doing good enough can make us feel like we are failing or not getting this parenting thing right. When these feelings start to creep in, try to breathe deeply and refocus on what your kids really want and need from you. Your child only wants you to show up as exactly as you are, with all your imperfections and mistakes. Being good enough, rather than perfect, fosters independence and autonomy in your growing child. 

Good enough parenting looks like: 

• Awareness and responding to our child’s needs. Being “good enough” is about getting it right some of the time, accepting that we can’t get it right all of the time and continuing to try. Children experiencing some levels of distress is not only normal but an important part of development. Research shows that experiencing distress and resolving it builds resilience.
  
• Repairing our mistakes. Repairing, resolving and making amends is an important part of “good enough parenting”. Turning our mistakes into resolutions creates learning opportunities for modeling problem-solving and emotional regulation.  Children need to see our mistakes and our humility so that they learn to handle mistakes when they make them and understand the importance of apologizing.
• Showing up for them the most when they are at their worst (and need you the most). Often, kids ask for help in ways that can be challenging. They communicate their needs through tantrums, screaming, or acting out. When you can remind yourself that “behavior is communication,” you can focus on the need rather than the behavior. What is your child trying to tell you? Are you able to show up for them when they are struggling with big feelings? Keep it simple: “I see that you are having a hard time,” can help them feel understood and validated.
• Taking breaks so that you can be fully present with them. Self-care is important. Remember to make sure your own emotional cup is filled so that you can fully show up for your child. Spending time with your little one is more about quality over quantity. So put your to do list and distractions aside and be fully present when you are with your child.   
• Your presence. This is hands down the best gift we can give to our children. They simply want our time and undivided attention. Children thrive in relationships where they feel acknowledged, valued and heard.  Look for ways to connect to your little one. It doesn’t have to get complicated- take a walk, put away your phone, have some one-on-one time.

No one can be a perfect parent, but you can be a “good enough” parent, one who guides their child toward a healthy, productive adulthood.