Parents Are Sharing Things Their Own Children Have Taught Them About Parenting

I've always been told being a parent is one of the greatest adventures in life. And with that said, you also learn A LOT along the way.

I recently asked the BuzzFeed Community to share what their own kids taught them about parenthood. Here are some of the most important lessons:

1."You will never pick up all the toys or clean all the mess up. When my first kid became a toddler, I realized I couldn't follow behind him all day picking up toys for my own sanity. Prior to having kids, I was extremely organized with my home, and it was always spotless. Now, I have my kids pick up at the end of the day, with my help, and have just learned to embrace the chaos!"

2."Parenting isn't one size fits all. You have to work with your child's personality, and each kid is different. I think it's so important to see your children as their own person and not an extension of yourself. And BE HONEST with your kids."

—j11th

3."Sometimes you need a cuddle in the morning. We have a schedule and it's hectic in the mornings. Sometimes my daughter needs one more hug."

4."Pick your battles carefully, but when you choose them, you have to win. I use this in my parenting. If it's behavior that's troubling or destructive, it's going to be corrected. If it's a kid being a kid, not hurting anyone, just being their weird little self, let them be a kid."

—problematik

5."Having a child has brought a new part of my identity. I'm still me. I have my hobbies, my family, my friends, and my convictions, and now I have a new facet of my identity: motherhood. All the facets of my identity are reorganized to complement each other. Of course, there are some sacrifices and some changes. Motherhood has made me a better person, more loving, patient, compassionate, less judgemental, and less stressed about the small stuff. There is an unconditional love between my daughter and it makes me feel secure and confident. My relationship with my husband has also blossomed with this new step, as fatherhood has made him a better person. That said, I do NOT advocate having a kid to try to save yourself or your relationship!"

6."A long time ago I learned that raising children is just like raising puppies and kittens."

—Anonymous from Ohio

7."I am dad in a wonderfully blended family. I learned that people love in different ways. Just because someone does not love you the way you want does not mean they do not love you!"

8."I realized I need way more therapy. When little eyes watch and imitate you, you see all your traumas and flaws on display. Therapy has made me a much better mom and a better human. It isn't easy, but it's worth it watching my kids have much better emotional intelligence because I can manage myself better."

—Andrea from New Mexico

9."Maybe it's just my generation, but being nice isn't always the most effective response to a situation. Teacher for 12 years, parent for 20+ years."

10."There aren't many things worth getting mad over. When I was a kid, my dad would hit/yell almost every day over every little thing. I was terrified of him. I let my kids be kids and a lot of the stuff they do, I either let it go or talk to them about it. Very few situations require them to be 'punished.'"

—cooladmiral671

11."It's OK to make mistakes. Say sorry and explain to your kid that you are learning, too! As much as they are learning how to be themselves, you are learning about them, too."

12."My 7-year-old taught me not to sweat the small stuff and to let things go for your sanity. Often it's not worth the arguments and tantrums. For example, my kid refuses to wear shoes in most instances. Sometimes I have to enforce it (like in the supermarket) but often I shrug my shoulders and let it go. I think parenthood is working out whether you have the energy to battle over things that might not be that important in the long run."

—libby77

13."I have learned so much about subjects I never imagined because of my daughter. Because she found an interest in theater and robotics when she was young, I now love seeing musicals and tinkering with mechanics! I learned with her whenever she was learning something new in school or had a new interest. Being a father broadened my horizons and taught me so much."

14."My husband told me that he always thought people who excused themselves during a conversation to deal with their kids' misbehavior were either rude or helicopter parents. He thought the kids could wait to be dealt with later. Three kids later, he realizes that sometimes kids need to be corrected to save them from immediate harm to themselves or others. Sometimes, that means seizing on the opportunity in the moment. In other words, he realized that good parents deal with their kids."

—J from Texas

15."My child has inspired me to accept the work I need to do. To acknowledge that I'll never have all the answers and that it's OK. I'm fallible and still perfectly loveable and a good mom, and in turn, I'm far more forgiving with others. Learning and growing are forever. You never get to the finish line. Embrace it."

16."There's not a perfect way to parent. The sleepless nights and mental work of always being aware of this tiny human that needs and depends on you is humbling. After having my daughter, the level of admiration I had for my parents changed tremendously. I know not everyone is born into the same family dynamic but whoever does choose to love you and take care of you is so special and strong. Parenting is something you commit to fully and as hard as it is, it is easily the most rewarding and motivating experience of your life."

—Sam from New Jersey

17."My little one, plain and simple, taught me how to be a parent. I had no idea what I was doing and he would communicate in one way or another what he needed, what made him feel bad, what he wanted from us, and I realized I needed to take my cues from him. He's a smart little guy and I will forever wonder what I did to deserve him. We still set boundaries and make responsible decisions he may not like, but he's never taken advantage of our approach."

18."Having my daughter has taught me to have more grace for my mother. She had me a lot younger at 25. I had my daughter at 32. Although I'm doing things differently, I've learned from her mistakes and understand she was doing her best with what she knew. Every day, I know I'm doing my best with what I know!"

—Lauren from California

19."From raising a 4-year-old and a 20-month-old, if it looks like poop, it's poop. If it smells like poop, it's poop. If it looks like chocolate, it's poop. If it smells like anything edible, it's poop. If it has a weird color or texture, chances are it's poop! Kids chew on EVERYTHING, especially Crayons, TV remotes, and carpets. My carpet corners are balding thanks to my lovely kids!"

Parents, what other important lessons have you learned since having kids? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.