He’s running to his dad who went around the corner to the coffee station. But then he just starts running back and forth. It’s not a great place to be running. The food counter is on the left and the dining area is on the right. People are walking around getting food and hot coffee. But I can’t get out of the dumb chair. He needs to stop. It’s not safe. And there’s an older couple who keeps glaring at each pass he makes. When he gets close to the table I call him over. 2/5

My god there needs to more of this in the world 😍😍

Once in a while, tell a parent they’re doing a great job. Whether a friend or stranger, boosting a parents confidence is an act of kindness and generosity. Far too many people judge parents too harshly.

I love this so much. And I love that you understand he is not stopping because he physically can’t, not because he’s being “bad”. Stressful situation and you didn’t yell!

Several times when my kids were little I had strangers come up to me and compliment them on their good behaviour. It always gave me a lift. They were always perfect little angels when we were out in public, at home quite the opposite! You win some you lose some! I'd rather have them misbehaving at home though, and being good when they were out, than the other way around. Being a mum is tough. A kind word goes a long way.

I was once “flying” my son to the car in a Trader Joe’s parking lot as he giggled uncontrollably and a women walked past me and goes “You’re a good mom!” Made my week.

As a retired career nanny myself, I love this thread. It costs nothing to smile and murmur “great job, Mama” when passing someone in the supermarket who’s holding space for their screaming toddler on the floor- but it validates their choices, and deflects some of the tut-tut judgy looks they’re getting from people whose kids had the same tantrum back in the day!

My husband was once getting our son out of the car seat in the Trader Joe’s parking lot. He was talking him through what we were going to do in the store and after. There was a girl in the car next to him and she rolled down the window and told him how much it warmed her heart to hear him talking to our son with such respect, patience and guidance and it made her want to cry because she never had that as a child 🥺 I will never forget that!

I used to go to Barnes and Noble w my oldest when he was little. He asked me about the authors and books on the wall and I was talking to him about them. A woman paused as she left and said “I just wanted to tell you you are a wonderful mom.” I’ve never forgotten that (obviously). I’m waiting for the day to do the same kindness because it was such a gift!!!