10 Surprising Realities About Parenting That You Don’t Discover Until You Become a Parent

Updated: Sep. 16, 2023

Originally Published: Aug. 28, 2014

Before becoming a parent, I often rolled my eyes at those who would say, “You have no idea what it’s like to have kids until you actually have them.” I thought I had a grasp on it—kids are adorable, but they also require a ton of effort. I figured getting a dog would be a good way to practice. Boy, was I wrong! Now that I have three kids of my own, I feel compelled to share some genuine insights. Trust me when I say: YOU REALLY DON’T KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE KIDS UNTIL YOU DO!

If I could offer advice to new parents, I wouldn’t just reiterate that their lives will change forever; that’s too obvious. Instead, I’d invite them to sit back with a drink and provide some realistic insights. Let’s dive in!

1. Kids Are Disgusting.

Sure, everyone knows that kids can be messy, but nothing prepares you for the reality of dealing with it firsthand. You’re not just changing diapers; you might find yourself cleaning up unexpected messes in the most public of places. Whether it’s a surprise accident at the mall or a projectile vomit situation during a tantrum, these events will become part of your new normal. And don’t even get me started on the fact that kids will eat their boogers as if they were gourmet treats. Yep, it happens!

2. Kids Are a Dirt Magnet.

Before I had kids, I thought I understood how messy they could be. I knew about sticky fingers and crumbs, but I had no idea that dirt would find its way into every nook and cranny of my home. You’ll discover remnants of snacks in places you never imagined—like inside your toothpaste! Be prepared for your car to become a crumb-filled pit, and good luck keeping your home clean with all the sticky toys and surfaces everywhere.

3. Kids Hoard Everything.

Having kids means saying goodbye to a tidy home. Toys will multiply, taking over every room. Even if you don’t buy them many toys, friends and family will generously contribute to the chaos. You’ll quickly find that your once-organized space is now a toy explosion. Eventually, you’ll give up trying to maintain order and start tossing everything into any available container. Embrace the mess; your sanity will thank you!

4. Kids Are Constant Moochers.

When it comes to food, kids are relentless. They can go from being picky eaters to suddenly wanting a bite of whatever you’re having, no matter what it is. If you want to enjoy your meal, either stand your ground and don’t share or give them a mouthful of something they’ll find disgusting. Either way, prepare to share your snacks, chapstick, and anything else you thought was yours.

5. Kids Have a Strange Relationship with Sleep.

It’s a universal truth that kids will not sleep when you want them to. Just when you think you’ve figured out a schedule, they’ll throw you a curveball. Whether it’s sleeping in when you have plans or refusing to nap when you finally need a break, their unpredictability will keep you guessing. Just know you’ll never fully understand their sleep patterns.

6. Kids Are Incredibly Needy.

From birth, kids require constant attention and care. New parents are warned about the demands of a newborn, but the neediness doesn’t stop there. As they grow, their dependency shifts but remains strong, with constant requests for help, comfort, and attention. You’ll often feel like a human servant rather than a parent.

7. Kids Bring Unexpected Challenges.

Having kids means navigating a myriad of challenges you never anticipated. From tantrums in public to unexpected allergies, every day can bring new hurdles. You’ll learn to think on your feet as situations arise, and your problem-solving skills will be put to the test.

8. Kids Have Unique Personalities.

Each child is different, and their personalities will shine through from a young age. Some kids are adventurous, while others are more cautious. This diversity means that what works for one child may not work for another, adding to the complexity of parenting.

9. Kids Lead to Unending Love.

Despite the challenges, the love you’ll feel for your children is immeasurable. Watching them grow, learn, and develop their own personalities is a rewarding experience. You’ll find joy in their achievements and comfort in the bond you share.

10. Kids Will Change You.

Lastly, be prepared for how much becoming a parent will change you. Your priorities, values, and perspectives will shift in ways you never could have imagined. Embrace this transformation as part of your parenting journey.

In summary, parenting is an unpredictable adventure filled with surprises, challenges, and immeasurable love. If you’re considering the journey of parenthood, remember these insights—they might just help you prepare for what lies ahead. For more information on family planning and related topics, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.