There are dozens of parenting myths out there, and if you are becoming a parent, you have probably heard them. Many of these myths sound quite convincing, but have you ever wondered where they come from?

Even though these myths have some logic, it doesn’t mean they are the best for your baby. Here are three parenting myths that have been debunked.

THREE Parenting Myths Debunked

1. Let your baby “cry it out”. First, a common parenting myth had been to let your baby cry it out to learn how to sleep properly. While this advice was widely used, it has since been debunked. Letting a baby cry for a few seconds while you get to them isn’t a problem. However, if you let your baby cry for too long, it can cause insecurities and stress.
2. You can’t be your child’s friend. Next, another myth that has been debunked is that you cannot be friends with your child. This advice makes sense because you do not want to be too permissive, irresponsible, or lack boundaries with your children. However, being a good friend actually means giving good advice and guidance, providing comfort and support, and being able to hold healthy boundaries. A good parent is a good friend.
3. Your baby will be spoiled if you hold them too much. Finally, another common parenting myth was that you could spoil your baby if you hold it too much. This advice is one of the most troublesome because positive and gentle touch is one of the best ways to help your baby regulate and grow. Holding your baby will not spoil them. Instead, nurturing, responsive parenting is known to have positive outcomes for children.

There are so many parenting myths out there, and while some may be good for your child, many of them have been debunked over the years. Even though some of these myths have been debunked, it is hard to escape them in our modern culture. The best thing to do is to question any advice that may not sit right with you.