What is the hardest year of motherhood? Here’s what I’ve learned
The First Year: Sleep Deprivation and Learning to Adapt
Well, if you’ve just had a baby, or are expecting one, the first year can feel like an intense rollercoaster. Honestly, it’s tough to pinpoint a single “hardest” year of motherhood because every stage comes with its own challenges, but the first year is undeniably demanding.
Sleep Deprivation
Ah, sleep deprivation—my old friend. You don’t realize how much you rely on sleep until it’s completely disrupted by a crying baby at 3 a.m. and then again at 5 a.m. and then…well, you get the picture. Lack of sleep is a huge factor in making the first year difficult. I remember feeling like a zombie in those early months, just trying to keep my eyes open and figure out how to soothe my newborn.
Learning New Routines
As if sleep deprivation wasn’t enough, there’s also the constant learning curve. Babies grow quickly, and you find yourself adjusting to their needs—feeding schedules, diaper changes, nap routines—all while trying to find a rhythm in your own life again. Honestly, the first year is about survival, and if you make it through without losing your mind, you’re doing great.
The Toddler Years: Boundaries and Emotional Rollercoasters
Okay, so the first year is intense, but some would argue that the toddler years are where things get... tricky. You’re dealing with a child who is mobile, exploring, and discovering their independence. It’s also when your little one starts to have BIG emotions—and boy, does it test your patience.
Setting Boundaries
At this age, toddlers are learning boundaries, but so are you. They’re testing limits, and honestly, it can feel like one big battle every day. The tantrums, the “NO!” phase—it can be overwhelming. I remember my own experience when my toddler threw a fit over something as simple as not being able to wear shoes indoors. The emotional exhaustion from trying to stay calm and consistent in those moments is real.
Emotional Ups and Downs
The emotional ups and downs aren’t just limited to the toddler. Watching your little one navigate their emotions is heart-wrenching but also, strangely, rewarding. It’s the stage where you truly see them start to develop their own personality. Still, there are days when you wonder if the “terrible twos” are ever going to end.
The Middle Years: More Independence, More Responsibility
Once your child hits the middle years—around ages 4-7—things start to shift again. There’s more independence, which can be a huge relief, but it also brings new challenges and responsibilities. Your child is becoming their own little person with their own opinions and desires, and guess what? You have to navigate all of that while still being their guide and protector.
The Challenge of Parenting a School-Aged Child
For me, this stage has been a mix of excitement and exhaustion. School routines, homework, social dynamics—there’s a lot to manage. But it’s also rewarding to watch your child grow and start to grasp more complex concepts. Still, there are days when it feels like you're juggling a million things at once, all while trying to maintain a semblance of calm.
New Kinds of Questions and Decisions
This is the stage where you really start to feel the weight of your influence as a parent. Your child will ask questions about everything—from the way the world works to deeper concepts like fairness and right vs. wrong. These are the moments when your values and your ability to guide them through tough decisions really come into play.
The Pre-Teen and Teen Years: A Whole New World
I’ve heard so many parents say that the pre-teen and teen years are the hardest, and I’ll admit, I was nervous about this stage. However, I also think it’s a stage that can be incredibly rewarding. Sure, there are mood swings and independence battles, but there’s also an opportunity to deepen your relationship with your child in a new way.
The Quest for Independence
The need for independence peaks around this stage. Teens want to do things on their own terms, which can create tension. I remember struggling with my teen wanting more freedom, but also wanting to protect them and make sure they made good choices. It’s a balancing act between giving them space and keeping them grounded.
Emotional and Social Changes
Teenagers face a world of emotional and social changes, and it’s not always easy for them—or for you. I know firsthand that the mix of hormones, peer pressure, and academic stress can make the teenage years challenging. However, this stage also gives you a chance to teach your teen resilience, self-worth, and how to handle life’s challenges.
The Conclusion: Every Year Brings Something New
Honestly, if I’ve learned anything through my journey in motherhood, it’s that each year comes with its own set of challenges. Whether it’s the sleep deprivation of the first year, the emotional rollercoaster of the toddler years, or the growing independence of the middle and teen years, every phase requires adjustment and patience. But, looking back, it’s also filled with moments of joy, pride, and deep connection with my child.
So, what’s the hardest year of motherhood? It might not be just one—it’s the whole journey. And that’s okay. Because no matter what, every year brings its own set of unique experiences and rewards. You just have to hang on tight and embrace the ride!
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Is 172 cm good for a man?
Yes it is. Average height of male in India is 166.3 cm (i.e. 5 ft 5.5 inches) while for female it is 152.6 cm (i.e. 5 ft) approximately. So, as far as your question is concerned, aforesaid height is above average in both cases.
Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?
The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.
Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?
How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).
How tall is a average 15 year old?
Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years
| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
|---|---|---|
| 14 Years | 112.0 lb. (50.8 kg) | 64.5" (163.8 cm) |
| 15 Years | 123.5 lb. (56.02 kg) | 67.0" (170.1 cm) |
| 16 Years | 134.0 lb. (60.78 kg) | 68.3" (173.4 cm) |
| 17 Years | 142.0 lb. (64.41 kg) | 69.0" (175.2 cm) |
How to get taller at 18?
Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.
Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?
Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).
Can you grow between 16 and 18?
Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.
Can you grow 1 cm after 17?
Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.