Whether you won in the sleep lottery or not, as parents we’ve all had days when we’re so tired we can barely put one foot in front of the other without nodding off.
And, as parents, we’ve all been on the receiving end of comments that we’d rather not hear when surviving on just a couple of hours sleep a night.
For those who are currently in the thick of it, take solace in the fact that you’re not alone. And for those whose days of broken sleep are but a distant nightmare, take note of what you should REALLY be saying to the wrecked and weary.
Five NOT so great things to hear as a sleep deprived parent:
1. “You look tired”
I am. Thanks for stating the obvious.
2. “I’m so tired”
Yeah, you must be exhausted after your eight hours of uninterrupted sleep.
3. “Sleep when the baby sleeps”
Presumably I’ll do my chores when the baby does chores?
4. “My baby is a great sleeper”
Nobody likes a show off.
5. “You should try….”
Here comes the advice on what you should be doing so that your baby sleeps better. Like you haven’t tried it all before.
Five REALLY great things to hear as a sleep-deprived parent:
1. “I’ll tidy up / do washing / cook your dinner while you and the baby have a nap”
Now you can sleep when the baby sleeps.
2. “The technical definition of sleeping through the night is five hours”
Sleeping through the night doesn’t seem so unachievable anymore.
3. “This too shall pass”
No greater saying when it comes to this parenting malarkey.
4. “Sleep is for losers”
Not strictly true, but nice to hear.
5. “You’re doing great”
Mind The Hormones. Cue The Tears.
