Ain’t No Hood Like Motherhood

Mom, Mum, Mama, Ma, Madre, Mommy, Mother; all different words that have the same meaning and today an even special one. Today we celebrate all moms for their endless love and support in raising each and every one of us. I’m sure we can all agree that becoming a parent, a mother, is one of the most significant life changes a woman can experience. You’re quickly thrown into brand-new challenges and unexpected obstacles that coincide with the most love and joy that one will ever experience. With a community of families and educators filled with many mothers, we witness the journey of motherhood and all the wildly beautiful experiences and life lessons it brings.

In honour of Mother’s Day and championing women every day, we’ve rounded up lessons that our educators have learned during their experiences with their mom or through motherhood and the love they share for their little ones and family.

Lessons of being a mother from Mae, our Bridgeland Educator

I understand my mother perspectives  

Raising my children sends me back to my own childhood, and gives me a new understanding and appreciation for my mother's perspective during my developmental years. It's enlightening to be able to see my children's perspectives and see my mother in myself.

I've learned more about myself

Motherhoood has tested me in every way, and I'm surprised to find that in some ways I'm not as assured as I used to be, but in others I'm so much stronger than I ever knew I could be. Being a mom has helped me learn more about myself than anything else I've ever done.

Time goes by so fast

I'm getting older, but feel younger, but then feel older, but then feel younger all the time.

Louise’s love for being a mom, our Fairview Educator

Becoming a mom has brought so much happiness, joy and love into our lives. Every day brings more smiles and laughter. Frank, our son, has made us far more appreciative and grateful for life. I love walking into his room each morning and seeing how excited he is to see us. I love our bedtime routine of reading books together and getting a 'squeezy hug' and a kiss before bed. I love how he holds my head still when he is trying to kiss me so he can make sure he kisses my lips! I love every moment of being a mom, even on the hard days and nights. I remind myself how lucky I am to have this little munchkin in our lives.

As Frank grows, I hope to teach him to be kind, respect everyone in the world, and encourage him to follow his dreams.

Lessons of being a mother from Danjela, our Fairview Educator

Being a mother is instinctual 

I realized that women are born with the instinct of a mother. As soon as they are responsible for raising a human, they become the best that they can be.

As a mother, you have a responsibility

Once you become a mother, you have a compelled desire to ensure your children are happy and healthy human beings who are also responsible citizens

You form an appreciation for your parents 

It isn’t until you become a mother that you then understand and appreciate the sacrifice that your parents or guardians made for you

Lexie’s love for her mom, our Fairview Educator

One of the many reasons why I love my mom is because she has such a kind heart. She is so generous and selfless. She has instilled the value of kindness in me and learning to accept and love everyone’s differences as we are all equal beings. Her positivity does not go unnoticed, and I’ve learned to embody this characteristic in everything I do.

Lessons of being a mother from Kathrina, Our Bridgeland Educator

Respect every family

Since becoming a mother, I’ve learned that every mother, every child and every family is different. There is no one-way to parent, and to recognize that we are all doing our best. 

Everything I do is for love

As a mother, there are many sacrifices that need to be made in order to do what is in the best interest and support of my child. While sacrifices can be tough, I know it is worthwhile because of the love I have for my little one. 

Balance is important

Being a mother has made me selfless, as everything I do is for my child. However, being a mother is a full-time job and can often leave us parents feeling over-extended. Finding balance to be selfless but also take care of our own wellbeing is important for how we show up in the world, not only for ourselves but for those around us.

Lessons of being a mother from Nancy, our Bridgeland Educator

With kindness comes compassion

Since becoming a mother, I’ve learned the importance of being kind to yourself and others, and showing respect to all. Instilling these qualities into my son Cooper is something I practice every day.

Slow down, and be present

As parents, life gets busy and before we know it our little ones are all grown up. I’ve learned to slow down and actively listen and be engaged with what my Cooper is interested in, and reciprocate the same interest back.

 We learn from each other

While children may be young and still growing, seeing the world through eyes is a lesson in and of itself. I love the ability to learn together as I progress through motherhood and Cooper progresses through childhood.

From our hearts to yours, we extend our love and gratitude to all the moms out there. Thank you for your patience, selflessness, resilience and love in raising your little one(s) and our future generations.