We asked some of the best parents we know to tell us about the most important thing they’ve done as parents and have shared their wisdom below.

Dylan Kraayenbrink | Family Photographer in Grand Rapids Michigan

As a parent, the most important thing I believe I’ve done for my son Tucker is raising him in a Christian home and providing him with the foundation to come to know Jesus when he’s old enough to understand. Nurturing his spiritual growth and instilling strong values based on our faith has been a priority for me. In a world filled with numerous influences and distractions, I wanted to ensure that Tucker has a solid moral compass and a deep sense of spirituality. By sharing our Christian beliefs, attending church together, and fostering an environment where prayer and discussions about faith are encouraged, I hope to guide him towards a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ. Read more>>

Ron Elliott Jr. | Filmmaker

The most impactful thing I’ve done as a parent is to be fully present, transparent, and available. Read more>>

Selena Martinez | Nail Artist

The most important thing I did was learn a new skill that is beneficial for everyone worldwide and it’s also something I can teach my kids for generations to come. Read more>>

Ashley Whited | Esthetician and Owner at Solasta Spa Salon and Wellness

One of the most important and challenging things I have done as a parent (and default parent) is choosing to start a business and have a career. As a Mother to two beautiful daughters, I think it’s important so show them through example that through hard work, balance and planning, you can be a great hands on parent as well as have a fulfilling career. Doing this doesn’t come easy and sacrifices are made daily, but having a career that allows me to have an identity outside of motherhood gives me the ability to be the best mother I can be. I want my children to understand and respect hard work, patience and sacrifice and I can only hope they learn by watching through mine and my husbands examples. Read more>>

Tanya Thompson | Founder: The Aroma Labs

I founded my business as a way to cope with the grief of losing my co-parent. Widowed at 30 with two young daughters aged 3 and 6, I found solace and connection through creativity. Crafting candles, scrubs, and lotions with my daughters not only lifted my spirits but also led to heartfelt gifts for teachers, bus drivers, mail carriers, and friends. People were curious about our creations, so I invited them into my home to join us, sparking a love for the shared experience of crafting. This passion guided me through higher education, making me the first in my family to earn an associates, bachelors, and masters degree. My business model took shape during a class project. Read more>>

Teleah Mitchum | Nutrition Consultant

I was blessed to have one child of my own and two, now grown, step-sons from my ex-husband’s first marriage. My daughter is a senior in High School, ready to graduate and enter the world. Which she admits, is a very scary place. Daily reports of gun violence, war, inflation, strikes and renewed student loan payments make you not wanna grow up. The single most important thing i did for all my kids is not to rush that process. I gave each of my children 2 years, after graduation, to live at home and figure out what you want to do with your life. I gave them the opportunity to not do anything for once in their lives. Sleep in, not have to study, party hardy, and be a little reckless. Read more>>