Dear Mum, You’re Doing Better Than You Think

Dear Mum, You’re Doing Better Than You Think

I see you, right there in the middle of it all. The endless questions, the emotional storms, the constant juggling—it’s enough to make anyone feel stretched thin. Your kids, with their boundless energy and big feelings, are pulling you in a hundred directions. And on top of it all, there’s the overstimulated meltdowns, the squabbles, and that constant hum of trying to keep everyone happy.

But here’s what I want you to know: you are doing better than you think.

The Chaos Doesn’t Define You

‍It’s easy to feel like the chaos is a reflection of your parenting. But let me remind you—kids are little humans, navigating big emotions they don’t always know how to handle. The tantrums, the meltdowns, the sibling spats—they’re not signs of failure. They’re part of growing up. And the fact that you’re there, showing up every single day, even when you’re exhausted, speaks volumes about your love and strength.

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A Gentle Reminder for When It Feels Like Too Much

When the noise gets too loud and the demands pile up, take a moment to pause. Even if it’s just for a minute. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and let your shoulders drop. You’re carrying so much, but you don’t have to do it all perfectly.

Here are some small steps to find ease in the middle of the chaos:

Anchor Your Day
‍Create a small routine—a morning walk, a story before lunch, or an afternoon stretch. Kids thrive on predictability, and so do you.

Give Yourself Permission to Step Back
‍It’s okay to let the TV babysit for a bit or say “no” to activities that stretch you too thin. You’re human, not a superhero.

Bring Calm to Overstimulation
‍When your child’s emotions boil over, try meeting them at eye level and saying, “I see you. I’m here.” Often, just being present can diffuse the tension.

Find Tiny Moments for You‍

Five minutes of deep breaths, a sip of tea, or stepping outside to feel the sun. These small acts of self-care add up.

You Are Enough

It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short when you’re managing it all. But your kids don’t need a perfect mum. They need you. The one who listens when they’re upset, who offers hugs when they’re tired, and who keeps trying, no matter how hard it gets.

They’ll remember the moments of connection, not the mess. The laughter, not the arguments. And even when it feels like the wheels are falling off, they see your love in every little thing you do.

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This Season Won’t Last Forever

The school holidays might feel endless right now, but they will pass. The noise will quiet, the days will find rhythm again, and you’ll look back at this season with pride for how you navigated it all.

For now, give yourself the grace to rest when you can, to lean on your support system, and to let go of perfection.

You’re doing an amazing job, even if it doesn’t feel like it today.

With love and understanding,
Someone Who’s Been There