Mother’s Day is a day to honor the sacrifices mothers make for their children. At least, that was the intent of Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother’s Day in the United States

This year, we’re also celebrating the many ways in which mothering has enhanced our lives. (“You can’t stay stagnant as a human being while you’re a parent,” Jen says.)

Parenting is a lot more challenging than most of us expected. And yet, raising kids is an awesome, enriching experience.

Parenting “by the books” is exhausting — and often ineffective. Our panel of experienced moms have found better luck (and more satisfaction) in tailoring their parenting to their child. And in trusting the process.

“Your child is going to grow through whatever stage he is in,” Janet says.

For many moms, Mother’s Day can be stressful. We want to be appreciated. We might want to relax — alone, or with family. Some moms are grieving the loss of a child, the loss of a parent, or other losses. Sharing your preferences with your family can be helpful.

• If we wanted boys or girls
• How parenting matched (or didn’t match!) our preconceived notions of parenting
• Our evolution as parents
• Sleep challenges
• Giving boys time to mature
• Self-compassion & self-care
• Letting others help

Honoring Dads on Father’s Day (and Always) — ON BOYS episode

Boy Moms as Boy Advocates — ON BOYS episode

All Boys? — classic Building Boys post

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