“25 Things I Tell My Toddler (That I Should Be Telling Myself)” originally appeared on Babble and was reprinted with permission.
By: Bailey Gaddis
I’m quick with the requests (demands) for my toddler, but not so quick to follow my own seemingly wise words. What if those words were translated by my “good angel” into advice that helped me curb a few of my less-than-stellar habits?
I’m giving that good angel (who is more likely an opinionated fairy) a moment to shine and respond to all the chitchat I’m consistently doling out to my son.
1. Only one cup of juice.
Only one cup of wine.
2. Sugar and fried foods will make you tired.
Sugar and fried foods will make you tired, cranky, puffy, lazy, and hungry.
3. Clean up before you move to another activity.
Close your 15 browser windows before you open a new one to browse Amazon.
4. Outside activity is good for you.
Outside activity will make you less neurotic.
5. Put on your shoes.
Change into real pants.
6. Only one episode.
I’m talking to you, late-night-Netflix-addict.
7. Yes, you need to take a bath.
When was the last time you washed your hair?
8. Be nice to your friends.
Be nice to yourself.
9. Don’t get too muddy.
Go jump in that puddle — you need it.
10. Eat your vegetables.
Cook some vegetables.
11. Please be patient, I’m going as fast as I can.
Take a breath, you’re going faster than you should.
Watch some of the most well-known Australians pass on the best advice they heard from their mum. (Post continues after video.)
