With all the pressures and struggles behind us as parents, it's no great surprise if you find yourself arguing with your other half from time to time.
Sure, don’t we all love a good argument? It’s good to blow off some steam and get it out there. Better out than in and all that. And with all the pressures and struggles behind us, as parents, it's no great surprise if you find yourself arguing with your other half from time to time.
Even if you were never a “fighty” couple you might notice that there are more arguments floating about since children came into the picture. There is so much at stake and small decisions have a great impact.
That level of responsibility can lead to heads butting and opinions differing. Parenting is a team sport but it can sometimes feel like you’re playing for different teams. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
Here are ten strange things that parents argue about. Sound familiar?
1. Who Got The Most Sleep
As though it is some sort of prize-less competition there will be a regular comparison of sleep levels, duration and quality. You’ll mention specific timings, detailed analysis of the children’s wake-ups and there is usually some kind of snoring mentioned. Sleep, or a lack thereof, is a pretty emotive topic when you are a parent.
2. One Parent Saying Yes While The Other Says No
You’ve just told the youngest that there will be no more screen time for the day and now you’re wondering if your eyes are deceiving you. The other parent has set them up on some kind of phone or tablet all in the name of peace so they can watch some kind of thing on the TV where men chase balls around a field. Deep breaths.
3. The Temperature
Did you ever in all of your life imagine that so many conversations would revolve around the temperature? You’re eyeing up the baby monitor adjusting the heating to religiously keep it at that perfect level. If it’s not that you’re anguishing over suitable clothing and arguing over the other person’s wardrobe choices for the child that day. And don’t mention baths – one degree over or under the recommended temperature and this bath just ain’t happening.
4. Who Has Worked Harder That Day
It’s subtle. You’re both making it sound like a friendly flowing conversation but you’ve managed to list all of the things that your partner may not be aware that you’ve done that day. You’re emphasising the fact that THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I’VE SAT DOWN ALL DAY with a friendly celebratory smile but the message is loud and clear – do not challenge me. In the game of who is the most exhausted you’ll really put up a fight.
5. Sex
The fact that it’s not happening. The fact that it is happening. The fact that one time it happened and the consequence was never sleeping again (this too shall pass). You put a bit of lippy on and now your man is following you around the house like a lost puppy. You’re somewhere in between flattery and repulsion. That’s normal right?
6. Driving
It was so easy before you had kids but now there are all sorts of politics regarding car seats, who sits where and most importantly who drives safer. Things you never noticed before are now considered to be a threat to the life of your precious little ones and it can get UGLY pretty quick.
7. Who Changed The Last Nappy
It shouldn’t be that hard to figure out and really it shouldn’t matter but this is a very serious matter so keep score.
8. Breathing
You’ll wonder how it took you so many years to realise that you’re married to someone who breathes this loudly. It’s annoying and actually quite offensive.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.
