My Toothless Son and Me

As my son has now turned one, it has left to wonder about some things-developmental milestone things. I have watched my son like a hawk when it comes to his developmental progress. I have read and searched and pondered about the first year in a child’s life. At first, the fear was not dropping him. It ended with why his teeth aren’t growing The conclusion to all this was to just give up worrying. Each child is different. But, as a new mother, as many first time mothers, I worry. Being an older mother (over 35), I worried throughout my pregnancy if my child was going to be born mentally normal. I felt like I wasn’t strong enough to survive a baby that wasn’t. But, my baby was born mentally normal. And, everyday I thank God for giving me my wish. My husband and I are currently discussing having another baby. Being a devoted Catholic, my husband has helped me become a stronger, better person. He said many times that if any child we have is born out of the ordinary, he/she is going to be our special baby. His words and comfort have made me a little less scared and a little stronger.

So, here I am with a son who is one year old with only 3 lower teeth-crooked ones I might add. But, should I worry that I can’t give him chewy things to chew on because he might choke? No, I just made an adjustment. I do still give him jarred food. But, I (we) also give him all types of food. Anything I eat, I give him small pieces. He does know how to chew very well. The doctor says not to worry, so I’m not worried. My son is happy and content, and as long as he is that’s all that matters to me. So, to hell with the milestones. I just tuck them away in order to keep this mommy sane. Yes, they creep up here and there, but they never take over. So, I say to all you new moms, just enjoy them as they are, because you will never get back that first year. And, now I stroll down the toddler lane hoping I won’t pull my hair out from all the “NO’s” coming my son’s way. And, this is just one mom’s opinion.