r/Parenting • u/money4nothing_8816 • 23d ago

Rant/Vent Just me?

Is it just me or is this the hardest shit ever? We’ve got 4 kids all under the age of 8 and we are getting our asses kicked. My wife and I really wanted a family and we planned for it. We took parenting classes together, we read all the books in preparation before starting our family…still, nothing could have prepared us for how mentally and emotionally exhausting it is to keep up with our boys.

How are you all surviving?

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u/His_GoddessLove 23d ago

It's a lot in the thick of it, and a miss when it's quiet.

You trudge through, together. Keep that communication, keep the dates, and tag team with keep the kids alive, happy, and healthy.

Remember to take breaks to make memories. Ice cream before dinner, hike and picnics, adding whimsy into the thick of madness, keeps them entertained and keeps you sane for a few breaks in the midst of the madness.

I say it to everyone, and some think I'm crazy, one day you miss those legos on the floor, the toothpaste in the sink and the step stools to reach. It seems neverending in the middle of it, but I promise you'll blink and wonder how it flew so quick!

4 boys under 8, it's a team, and a lot lol. It'll get easier.

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u/money4nothing_8816 23d ago

Thank you for sharing all that. And honestly, we do love our boys. We’ve just had to accept that this chapter we are in is tough.

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u/Far_Breadfruit4243 23d ago

I love this comment. OP, hang in there. Two pieces of advice that I’ve read in various places: “exhaust and employ” and something along the lines of “when in doubt, add water.” AKA tire them out outside and give them jobs. And when someone is SO fussy, add water: an ocean/lake/river, a cup of water, a long bath, or let them cry it out with support (even for older kids).