5 Pieces of the Best Parenting Advice You'll Ever Receive

In need of a parenting pep talk? While a trusted friend or confidante may have the calming advice you're looking for, there's also something nice about picking and choosing the messages that you take in — and choose to retain. Bookmark this article, and visit it whenever it can be of help to you. That may be while you have a newborn at home, a toddler, or beyond — because words of encouragement can go a long way.

Is it cliché if it's absolutely 100 percent true? Particularly in the early days and years of parenthood, the days (and nights) can feel endless. But then you blink, and they're toddlers, then preschoolers, then full-on kids. It does go quickly, even if it doesn't feel that way in the moment. Telling yourself this won't necessarily make you appreciate the tantrums and sleepless nights, but it may put into perspective that they don't last forever.

In her 2014 essay for the New York Times's "Motherlode" column, Catherine Newman wrote about eliminating the middle ground of paying "half attention" to your kids. If you have to work, take a phone call, or any other adult task, do so without wavering, allowing your children the freedom to be on their own and occupy their own time (within safe reason, of course). Then, when you're with them, let the undivided attention kick in. Put the iPhone and laptop away, and play, talk, read, or watch. They'll appreciate both your focus and the independence on the other end. And you'll benefit from it, too. Of course, not everyone's situation makes this totally doable, but have it as the goal when possible.

This simple shift goes a long way in reframing the way you think about the most challenging of parenting moments. Even if it feels like they're out to torture you with their lack of reason or rationality, a young child is much more likely to be having a tough time with their own emotions vs. trying to manipulate their parents. Think of how you can help them find comfort and calm rather than just getting it to stop for your own sanity.

The idea that we as parents can do it all on our own is highly unrealistic, and it can be detrimental to our own well-being. Don't be afraid to reach out to a babysitter, friend, or family member — whether you need to run an errand, get an hour of free time, or some advice. Including other adults in your child's orbit isn't just helpful to you, it's healthy for your children, too.

This one is on loan from Cup of Jo, which found a permanent place in my mind. The idea isn't to become the parent who lets their kids get away with everything — rather, it's to be the parent who lets them explore their curiosity. When it comes to the important stuff, and establishing routines and habits for functional, everyday life, of course parents should run the show. But, if they want to run around with flashlights after dinner, or wear two different shoes to school just to see if anyone notices, lean into "yes."