By: Brandi W., KY SEAT Member

Sunday, July 28th is National Parents’ Day. It’s a day to recognize parents are important. And who better to tell us why than…parents! Read on to hear from one KY SEAT member on what parenting means to her and her advice to others who embark on this wonderful impactful experience:

Parenting is a lifelong journey of love and learning. It’s the most important job there is. Yet, for some reason, it comes with no instruction manual. They literally let you give birth and just leave the hospital with your tiny bundle of joy and well wishes. And then the rollercoaster begins.

My name is Brandi, and I am a member of the statewide birth parent council—a group of parents who have had former CPS involvement. But my child welfare history doesn’t define me as a parent. What defines me is the love, maybe with a dash of chaos (but that’s normal). 

Here’s what I’ve learned about the highs and lows of parenting:

Take the Help. It really does take a village. It doesn’t make you less of a parent if you embrace support from others. Let Grandma cradle your baby while you catch a much-needed nap. If your baby cousin visits, let them be your shower buddy. Trust me, they’ve got this. You, and your child(ren) deserve it!

Take Care of You. Your wellbeing holds both you and everything around you together. Don’t let anyone make you question your worth as a parent because of mental health. Postpartum blues are real! Seek professional help. I did. After my daughter arrived, I sank into a sea of guilt and sadness. But my doctor listened, validated my feelings, and prescribed medication. There was no judgment, just healing. 

Soak Up the Small Stuff. With parenting comes mess, mess, and more mess. Cherish the chaos. Those giggles, those wide-eyed moments—they’re your treasures. When your child sees snow for the first time, share their wonder. And on a clear summer night, step outside and count stars together. These are the memories that weave the fabric of your family story.

Imperfect is Perfection. Parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence. The messy hair, the spilled milk, the bedtime stories—these are the threads that bind you. So, sweet girl, take care of yourself. Be kind to your tired heart. And remember, you’re not alone on this wild ride.

As you navigate this uncharted territory, know that there’s no one-size-fits-all guide. Your heart will lead you. And when in doubt, call Grandma, hug your baby, and dance in the rain. Because, my dear, parenting is messy, beautiful, and oh-so-worth it.

So, here’s to you—the brave soul raising the next generation. May your days be filled with Legos, starlit skies, and an abundance of love. I, and the other KY SEAT members, hope that you and all Kentucky parents never feel unsupported or alone. 

KY SEAT, through a collaborative partnership of Kentucky Youth Advocates and the Department for Community Based Services, is a statewide council of birth parents advocating for and empowering others who have past experience with the child welfare system.

To learn more information and resources about what parents, caregivers, and youth experience throughout the child welfare system process, visit kythrivingfamilies.org.

Photo by Anna Shvets via Pexels