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.

Iris Abreu | Lash Artist

Wow. I have to sit on this question because sometimes as a parent I question which impact encountered will my kids take with them through their own life experiences. My oldest child is 18. And the youngest are 4 and 3. When I ask my oldest, what impact has he felt I have left on him he says being disciplined, understanding the value of hard work, being respectful and cleaning. Lol, that’ last one is kind of an inside joke. We are Puerto Rican; cleaning home is mandatory lol! But maybe as a parent one of the most impact things I feel I have done and continue to do is try to be present. A huge emphasis on trying. Simply because there is so much going on in my own little head at times. But I’ve learned, with experience when the moment presents themselves and you hear the kids calling you and saying “mom look” just look over to them. Be present. That’s all the impact a child needs. Read more>>

Rachel Fiorello | Operations & Senior Sleep Consultant @ The Cradle Coach

As a parent, one of the most important things I have done as far as the impact on my children has been implementing a routine for them. I think one of the best gifts we can give our children is predictability (as best as we can). In creating a routine for them, they know what is to come each day and feel a sense of control in what is happening in their world. This is also one of the biggest things I instill in my clients at The Cradle Coach as well! Read more>>

Luis Pons | Architect and designer

To always support and promote her creative and magical thinking. Believing in her and respecting her decisions regardless of what I think. Ask question in instead of opinions . Embrace her as she is without wanting to change her. Read more>>

Theresa Torrone | Travel Advisor

I was a single mother to my daughter for seven or eight years until I met my now fiancé and I always stressed to my daughter that we are a team. I think that is my biggest impact as a parent. When children are young they want to be useful, they want to help out and I allowed my daughter to do so. She helped me cook dinner or make her lunch, she helped fold laundry and put away the groceries. I think this gave her a sense of confidence, she may be small but she could do big things that grownups do. As she grew older she claimed her independence and didn’t shy away from cooking dinner for herself or doing her own hair and makeup for dance competitions and performances. Being a part of our family’s team gave my daughter the confidence to believe in her abilities and proved that she is capable of doing many things. It taught her that she posses the skills to thrive in life and when she needs help the team will be there to support her and cheer her on. She is only thirteen but she is already taking on her world and I believe that’s all do to my impact as a parent and her team leader. Read more>>