Mama
Pacify your worries —30-month-old
When you think about quitting, think about why you started. Pacifiers are such a life saver when we first introduce them—but weaning them can be another a story. Figuring out the ifs, whens and hows is a tough one. But like all the mothering things you do, you'll do it respectfully and lovingly (and on your terms), so your toddler will be a-okay—no worries. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Try swapping out the binky for a new bedtime love, like the Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse.
An apple a day —29-month-old
Your kids don't want a perfect mom, they want a happy one. If it was up to her, your toddler would live on Goldfish, cookies and the occasional handful of dirt. Lucky for her, she has you. It's not always easy, but you are doing an awesome job of helping her make healthy choices... even when they include a little dirt. XO, Diana + TeamMotherly P.S. Thermos Funtainers inspire kids to stay hydrated.
Trust —31-month-old
You're kinda sorta kinda always on my mind. One of the things that makes motherhood such a challenge is that life continues to happen (and require your attention) while you parent. Learning what and how to prioritize is tricky. Trust your intuition, mama—it will guide you well. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Journaling can often help calm our racing brains, especially at the end of the day (and especially when the journal is really pretty).
Rockin’ + rollin’ —29-month-old
“You're the one who can fill the world with sunshine."—Snow White. Fact—dance parties and musical jam sessions are good for your toddler's brain (and your mood). So unleash your best air guitar, make a microphone out of a wooden spoon , and let the music flow. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Melissa & Doug's Band in a Box will keep your aspiring musician busy for hours.
Why why whyyyyy❓—30-month-old
Mom was not my first name, but it's my favorite. Your little explorer has questions about EVERYTHING, and as far as they're concerned, you have ALL the answers—#momgenious. Embrace their curiosity—you may just find yourself re-rediscovering the world right along with them. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Never hurts to have some Starbucks coffee in the house to fuel your question-answering power ☕️.
Why consequences don’t work—and what to do instead
Young children simply cannot think about how an action will affect them later. Here’s what you can do instead.
You don’t need to spend more money on your kids—just spend time
I would much prefer my babies have the childhoods of past generations: The simplified, easy days with nothing to do but be a kid.
Micro interactions increase life satisfaction—so go ahead and talk to strangers
When other people think you matter and treat you like you matter, you believe you matter, too.
Tiny human, HUGE feelings —25-month-old
Grow through what you go through. If you ever wonder how such a little person can have such big (and loud) feelings, you are not alone. It's so hard, but also so normal. Instead of thinking to yourself "she's giving me a hard time," try "she's having a hard time"—the little switch can help you bring your stress level down a bit. Hang in there, mama. You've got this. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. For the really hard moments, check out Motherly's bundle of Mama Meditations.
Please + thank you ✔️—28-month-old
My mini me is awesome. Those little eyes are ALWAYS on you ?—1. You are gorgeous, and 2. You are her biggest role model. As your little human watches you be a good human, she is learning so much about how to become an awesome member of society. Pretty powerful stuff, mama. P.S. Try play that requires lots of "pleases" and "thank yous," like a tea party with Green Toys Tea Set.
Your love is —31-month-old
I'm just winging it. Motherhood, eyeliner, everything. Let's face we it—moms today are under a lot of pressure. Whether inflicted by social media or ourselves, we spend so much time trying to be "perfect." But here's the thing—to your child, you already are. All he wants is your attention and love, and you're already an expert at that. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. I Love You Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt gives us all the feels about all the ways we love our littles.
A little bit louder now —26-month-old
There is a time and place for wine. Now, and in my hand. We've all been told to ignore the tantrums, that they are just a cry for attention. But what if it's more than that? What is it's not actually about attention, but connection? Sometimes a hug is just what is needed... for your toddler and for you. (And sometimes mama just needs a glass of wine and time to unwind with her friends. That helps, too.)XO, TeamMotherly P.S. In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek is awesome for helping little ones connect with and identify their emotions.
I’ll do it myself —33-month-old
Put on your positive pants.Independence is a glorious thing—though that's hard to remember when you're already 10 minutes late for daycare and you toddler INSISTS on putting her own shoes on... poorly. But hang tough, mama. Fostering independence now will set you both up for an exciting and more joyful future. XO, TeamMotherlyP.S. Pretend play is a great way to encourage their independence, and all kids love pretending in play kitchens!
Yummy Mummy —29-month-old
May your coffee be stronger than your toddler. Picky eating and toddlerhood usually come in hand-in-hand, and it can be down right stressful. But don't worry—there are ways to make mealtime easy and dare we say it, fun. Hint: playing with your food is not only allowed, it's encouraged . XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Our hearts BEET for Sun Basket meal delivery service. Check them out for 3 FREE meals!
It’ll be okay —33-month-old
Love is in the air, and it smells like coffee. You know what, mama? Sometimes it's just really hard. You try and you try, and yet for seemingly no reason, your toddler has (yet another) melt down. We just want to let you know that you are doing an AMAZING job, and your efforts are not in vain. You've got this. XO, TeamMotherlyP.S. To help make things more ok, Blue Bottle Coffee pairs chocolate AND coffee together for you and we love them for it.
Keep it simple, mama —32-month-old
There is beauty in simplicity. Having a toddler means 3 things—love, noise and STUFF. It's easy for our homes to become quickly overrun by toys, stuffed animals and Legos on the floor (#ouch). Ever have the urge to just bundle it up and donate it all? You might actually be on to something... aren't you clever! XO, TeamMotherly
Chomp chomp —27-month-old
Find me where the wild things are. Your toddler's pearly white are adorable... until they're locked on your arm flesh. Naughty behaviors like biting and hitting can be tough to deal with. Remember that this is a phase, and with some loving firmness from you, your tot will be on his way to a biting free existence. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. For teaching your little one what his teeth are meant for, check out Teeth are Not For Biting by Elizabeth Verdick.
Let’s fly —33-month-old
Don't ever lose your sense of wonder. To a child, the most "ordinary" things are magical—an ant walking on the sidewalk, the first snowfall of the season, a bird flying in the sky—and if you think about, it IS all pretty amazing. Take some time to join them as they marvel at these little miracles. And pretty soon, you'll believe in the magic too. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Magnatiles inspire hours of creative play for kids and parents!
Night time is the right time —34-month-old
Let's all go back to bed. You've spent all day taking care of your toddler. It's been fun, but let's be honest—mama needs a break. Perfecting your bedtime routine is so important. It'll help settle your tot in for the rest they need, and help YOU settle into the couch for your necessary Netflix and Chill time. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Couch time is made so much better by comfy leggings. Check out our faves!