7 Things I Wish I Knew as a New Parent

Becoming a parent is one of the most beautiful and overwhelming experiences you can ever go through. No one truly prepares you for how your heart can feel so full and exhausted at the same time. When I first became a mom, I remember constantly questioning myself,

Am I doing this right? Should I be doing more? 

Between the sleepless nights, the endless laundry, and the pressure to “get it all right,” it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind.

If you’re a new parent, I see you. You’re doing an incredible job, even on the days when it doesn’t feel like it. Looking back now, there are so many things I wish I knew when I first started this journey. Things that would have saved me stress, guilt, and maybe a few too many cold cups of coffee.

So, here are 7 things I wish I knew as a new parent.

1. Your baby doesn’t need a perfect parent, just a present one

I used to think being a good mom meant having everything under control, such as a clean house, the neatly folded baby clothes, the Pinterest-worthy nursery. But the truth is, babies don’t remember how tidy your home was; they remember how loved they felt.

Some of my favourite mom and toddler moments now are the messy ones, like baking together on the kitchen counter with flour everywhere, or reading stories while my toddler sits in her learning tower next to me. Presence beats perfection every time.

2. Independence starts earlier than you think

One of the most surprising lessons I’ve learned is how capable toddlers are when given the chance. The Montessori approach opened my eyes to the idea that children thrive when they’re encouraged to explore, try, and learn at their own pace.

When I introduced the learning tower, it completely changed our daily routine. Instead of me trying to do everything for my twins, they could safely climb up beside me while I cooked, wash their own hands, or help pour pancake batter. These little moments taught them responsibility and confidence.

3. It’s okay to slow down

Parenthood often feels like a race where milestones, schedules, and routines can take over. But babies and toddlers have their own natural rhythm, and sometimes the best thing we can do is slow down and follow their lead.

Take time to just be with your child. Sit on the floor and play. Go for a walk without your phone. Let them explore their world, even if it means dinner’s a little late. These small moments are the ones that stick, not the perfectly planned ones, but the real, in-between ones.

4. Connection matters more than correction

I used to think discipline was about saying “no” at the right time. But what I’ve learned is that toddlers don’t always need correction. They need connection. When they throw a tantrum or refuse to share, it’s not defiance; it’s communication.

When I started getting down to my children’s level, making eye contact, and helping them name their feelings, our relationship changed. They started feeling understood and the meltdowns became fewer. Parenting is all about guiding with empathy.

5. Your home environment shapes their learning

One thing I wish I realized sooner is how much the home setup affects how kids play, learn, and grow. When I first learned about the Montessori method, I started making small changes, like placing toys on open shelves, adding child-sized furniture, and creating spaces where my daughters could safely explore.

It didn’t just make them more independent but also happier. They learned to tidy up, pick their own books, and even set up their little play corner.

Simple changes like adding a kid’s furniture can support toddler milestones in ways that nurture both movement and confidence.

Recommended Reading: Toddler Milestones: What to Expect Each Year

6. You can’t pour from an empty cup

This one took me a long time to accept: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. I used to feel guilty for needing breaks, but I’ve learned that rest doesn’t mean weakness.

Your child deserves a happy, healthy parent, not one who’s running on fumes. Go for that walk, have that coffee alone, or take a few minutes to breathe. You’ll show up so much better for your little one when your own cup is full.

7. Every stage is fleeting, so soak it all in

It’s easy to wish for the next stage: sleeping through the night, eating solids, potty training. But every phase, even the exhausting ones, passes faster than you expect.

I still remember when my twins first climbed up into their learning tower to help me bake some cookies. It felt like such a milestone. Now they’re taller, more independent, and I can barely remember when she needed my help to climb up.

Try to take photos, journal little moments, or simply pause to take it all in. Because someday, you’ll miss the sticky fingers, the endless questions, the sleepy cuddles!

Final Thoughts

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual. Even if it did, every child is beautifully different. What matters most is showing up with love, patience, and a willingness to learn together.

If you’re in the stage of helping your toddler explore their independence and reach new milestones, check out our children’s furniture collection at Mommy’s Little Helper Co. Our furniture is thoughtfully designed to create safe spaces where kids can grow, learn, and be part of everyday family life. Shop now.