Anyone else feel overwhelmed with milestone expectations?
So I'm not sure if it's just me, but lately I've spent so much time freaking out and worrying about every little 'expected' developmental milestones for my son that I focus more on what he's not doing, convince myself he's not meeting expectations and stressing myself our rather than enjoying every second with him? It's literally turning me into a nervous wreck but I can't stop, I know that Google and social media are making it worse!
My beautiful just turned 17month old is my world, he's walking, babbling, gesturing, full of love and hugs & is a total live wire, he's wonderful .. but then I see posts about how manynwords a 17month old should have, or he should be recognising bodyparts or responding to his name EVERY time I say it, or sleeling through the night in his own cot and I go down a rabbit hole of what ifs and it is really affecting me !. My good friend had her son 4 days before me and when she shares her concerns, I become rational, reasonable and reassuring for her, but can't do the same for myself. Tell me it's not just me like this... I know in my heart he's developing so well and I need to let him find his own way! But honestly... Google and social media is the worst at times!!
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Comparison is the thief of joy. I feel the same, I have to remind myself social media is rarely true and people saying their toddlers know 1k+ words, run marathons and have three full time jobs by 18 months old are likely full of 💩, they can’t do it all x
It is hard to not compare but they all learn at different speeds. Sounds like your boy is doing great !!! And your a great momma.
I've recently felt the same but put those feelings to one side to just enjoy the present with my 17m boy. I understand that they focus on certain skills.. my boy talks loads and already put 3 word sentences together but he isn't walking. He can sofa surf and walk with walker but not independently. Yes it annoys me when friends say LO walking when they are younger than my boy but I know he will walk when ready.
I'd try and stay off google, focus on the now and enjoy.
I'm sure by the end of the year we will wish our LOs didn't run everywhere and constantly talk 🤣
@Zoey absolutely... i heard it said that when they've absolutely nailed one developmental skill (I.e talking in your little ones case) the next skill can take a little time to happen... my wee one got to walking right and quick, he's saying single words and has a good amount of gestures, and I know it ll all come together in good time. I always feel guilty that we don't get out to many mums and tots or soft play (I work from home)and worry that that is hindering him, but I think I'll delete tiktok for a while and just enjoy his progress
Don't feel guilty your working to give your son the best life you can.
I work from home too, boy goes to nursey but we don't meet other mums when I'm off. He is good socially although may change as hits 2 lol. But we are creating him life long experiences.
I take any SM posts re babies progress with a pinch of salt.
You are clearly a great mum and your LO is loved and nurtured and that’s what matters. I’ve always heard it’s often after 2.5-3 years old where we might want to get interventions if there are any delays! And with interventions very kid catches up. Until then it really is just every baby doing things at their own pace. Milestones are based on averages, instead of comparing to the average, compare your LO with themself. Have they improved since last few months in something? Are they getting better at a particular skill?
But you’re right, you should try to spend more time enjoying them as they are! Less worrying about what they “should” be doing. If they’re happily getting on, healthy, loved up, then that’s they are really okay! X
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