Parenting is a beautiful journey filled with moments of love, learning, and growth—for both parents and children. Here are over 30 practical, heartfelt tips from real moms who’ve been through it all and are sharing what worked for them.

1. Children see themselves through their parents' eyes.

Your words, actions, tone of voice, and body language shape their developing self-esteem more than anything else.
— Heba, mother of two

2. Encourage independence early.

Letting kids do things on their own helps them feel capable and strong. It nurtures confidence, decision-making, and leadership skills.
— Heba, mother of two

3. Unconditional love matters.

Let your kids know you love them no matter what. Mistakes are part of learning, and knowing they’re still loved helps them grow.
— Heba, mother of two

4. Praise the good.

Make it a habit to reward kind or correct behavior with love, hugs, and positive words. It boosts their self-esteem and encourages more of that behavior.
— Heba, mother of two

5. Let them eat with their hands.

Allowing babies and young children to eat independently helps them build a healthy, enjoyable relationship with food.
— Heba, mother of two

6. Share healthy meals together.

Family meals introduced my kids to healthier food choices. Their favorite snack? Dates with salty kefir!
— Heba, mother of two

7. Teach your baby how to fall safely.

When they start walking, guide them gently on how to fall. It’s a skill that will help as they take their first steps.
— Dina, mother of two

8. Handle tantrums with empathy.

During toddler tantrums, crouch down, show understanding, and gently redirect their attention. It usually works!
— Dina, mother of two

9. Early bedtime is a gift for all.

Not only is it essential for your child’s development, but it also gives you much-needed time for yourself or your partner.
— Dina, mother of two

10. Turn car rides into bonding moments.

Tell stories, sing songs, or point out interesting things. Make every ride a little adventure.
— Dina, mother of two

11. Make indoor fun count.

Stuck inside on a rainy day? Build a cozy tent with chairs and blankets—instant fun!
— Dina, mother of two

12. DIY play-dough is magic.

It’s affordable, simple, and extra fun when you prepare it together!
— Dina, mother of two

13. Offer choices.

Giving kids simple choices (what to eat, wear, read, etc.) avoids conflict and builds independence.
— Laila, mother of two

14. Reuse for fun.

Old shampoo bottles make great bath toys—my kids love them!
— Laila, mother of two

15. Acknowledge authors.

When reading, mention the writer’s name—it builds appreciation for books and storytelling.
— Laila, mother of two

16. Care for yourself.

I once read, “If you care for yourself, you give out of love, not guilt.” It changed my perspective on motherhood.
— Laila, mother of two

17. Exercise together.

Instead of carving time out, include your kids. Dance, swim, or play interactive games—it’s fun for all!
— Mary, mother of three, physical education teacher

18. Structure holidays.

Breaking the day into outings, rest, and play gives kids something to look forward to—and keeps everyone sane!
— Mary, mother of three, physical education teacher

19. Breakfast for dinner!

It’s always a winner. Try savory waffles for a healthy twist—they’re great for sneaking in veggies!
— Sarah, mother of three

20. Recycle for fun and learning.

A home recycling bin teaches responsibility. Bonus: Use materials for fun art projects!
— Sarah, mother of three

21. Get them involved in the kitchen.

My picky eaters enjoy food more when they help make it. A tiny apron can go a long way.
— Sarah, mother of three

22. Bedtime = storytime + shadow play.

Reading and simple wall shadow games create sweet bedtime memories.
— Sarah, mother of three

23. Dance with your baby.

Even a few minutes of dancing with my 4-month-old brings joy to us both.
— Sarah, mother of three

24. Invest in a baby sling.

It made errands and playtime with my older kids easier, all while keeping baby close.
— Sarah, mother of three

25. Thursday = movie night!

Pizza, pillows, and cuddles every Thursday help us all unwind after a long week.
— Sarah, mother of three

26. Postpartum Depression is real.

I went through it. What helped was asking for help. Don’t stay silent—you’re not alone.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

27. Don’t overthink everything.

Too much milk? Should I use baby powder? Can she lick that squash? Chill, mommies—it's okay.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

28. Take your baby out.

Even if they cry, it’s okay. Exposure now makes going out easier later.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

29. Struggling with a fussy eater?

A mom once told me: Just place finger food within reach. When they’re hungry, they’ll eat. It worked!
— Samar, writer and mother of one

30. Don’t get them used to rocking to sleep!

Trust me, I did that. Now she’s almost two and still demands it… and my back hurts!
— Samar, writer and mother of one

31. Make mommy friends.

Especially as a first-time mom, join groups or centers. It makes outings so much more fun.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

32. Have a baby shower before baby arrives.

It’s hard to celebrate when you’re busy changing diapers for guests. Trust me.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

33. Breastfeeding is tough—but gets easier.

It hurts at first, but hang in there. Soon, the pain fades, and you’ll start enjoying the bonding.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

34. Flying with a baby?

Pack extra clothes… for yourself. Just trust me on this one.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

35. If your newborn sleeps a lot, let them.

They’ll wake up when they need to. Meanwhile, enjoy the quiet.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

36. Don’t fly with a sick baby if you can avoid it.

If you must, prepare for a tough ride—and ignore that childless woman glaring at you.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

37. No comparisons.

Don’t compare your baby to others—or yourself to other moms. You’re both doing your best, and that’s amazing.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

38. Accept help.

Want tea? Yes. Diaper change? Yes. Babysitting offer? Absolutely yes!
— Samar, writer and mother of one

39. Document milestones.

Take a photo in the same spot every month during baby’s first year. You’ll love the collage later.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

40. Introduce them to Barney!

Seriously. This purple dinosaur saved me. My baby loves him—and I get things done.
— Samar, writer and mother of one

Parenting is messy, magical, and everything in between. These tips aren’t rules—they’re reminders from one mom to another that you’re not alone, and you're doing great.