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Parents, Support Each Other

How to Show Appreciation to Fellow Moms and Dads

By Amy Dingmann

When parents are struggling with a situation, they aren't always looking for a pat on the back. At times, a good chuckle works even better.

"Sometimes a correctly timed joke will be enough to let parents know they aren't the only ones going through this," Wilhelm says. "I've walked up to a mom in a store as she struggles with her child and quietly said, 'Don't they drive you nuts when they do that?' or 'When you figure out how to stop your child from doing that, you can come and work on mine!' I don't do this all the time, but you kind of get a sense when it's the right time."

Wilhelm remembers a time several years ago when someone's encouragement really made a difference. "We were out shopping and the kids, ages 3, 4 and 5, had to use the bathroom," she says. "Each child ran for their own stall and I then traveled between stalls making sure each child was doing OK. I helped each one with their needs and then steered them to the sinks. I thought we were alone in the ladies room when I saw an elderly woman exit one of the stalls. As she was about to leave, she touched my arm and said she had heard our whole potty experience and had to say she was very impressed with the loveand kindness I showed my children during what could be a stressful experience. She said she knew if I showed that much love in tending to the bathroom needs of my children, I must show even more love in the rest of their lives. I was shocked ... but completely grateful."

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