Will this get easier when he’s two?? I hate my life

[sofedupofthiss]

My son is 16 months. Partner is at work a lot, but does his bit when around. I’m so fed up. I hate being a parent. Constant shit, washing, food prep, struggles with dressing or car seats etc etc etc what age will it feel better

Go back to work full time! There's nothing wrong with that. Looking after little ones is very hard. If you feel like you aren't enjoying it you'd be best working, put him in nursery and you will enjoy your weekends with him much more.

it's hard

OP, you're right in the horrors now but it does get better, honestly. I found 14-18 months the hardest stage by far but I would say things got significantly better from 3 onwards. The toddler years are difficult because they're still totally dependent on you for their every need but they're also becoming strong-willed. At least newborn babies stay wherever you put them!

I think with both of mine it was probably at around the 3-3.5 year mark that I started to genuinely enjoy parenting. Prior to that I loved my children very much but found most aspects of parenting either boring or stressful. They're 6 and 10 now and fantastic company. Not only are they great fun but they can entertain themselves for significant periods of time, they can get dressed and go to the toilet with zero input from me, they can play in their own rooms or in the garden without me having to watch them like a hawk, they make me laugh every day, they sleep all night, they can tidy up their own toys. The eldest even makes me a cuppa. I know all that probably seems a million years away, OP but I swear it comes around quicker than you think. Hang in there.

Honestly it was probably about 3 and a half when ds got more "enjoyable". It can be relentless, honestly, stick him in nursery to give yourself a break if you have to 🙈

Life is starting to get better now youngest is 2.9. Should continue to improve as we hit 3and onwards.

He's been the devil incarnate since he was born so I'm desperate for the improvement to continue now and actually be able to enjoy having him around rather then feeling like we live with Tiny Hitler all the time.

What does a typical day with your kid look like? Are there any good toddler groups in your area? I have a 2 year old and our week looks like this (otherwise I would go insane!)

Mon toddler group
Tuesday different toddler group
Weds 'baby gym' (local gymnastics club sets out benches, crash mats etc for under 4s)
Thursday park / library / similar
Fri swimming

Routine is key! Good luck, it's not easy.

Are you getting enough sleep? Are you getting to do nice things just for you, even if its a just good kindle book, or a vinted parcel? Try to build in something for yourself.

Parenthood can be a hard slog, but there is no other choice but to persevere, slap on a grin and try to enjoy the things you do.

@CinnamonJellyBeans good point. Every Sunday I eat chocolate, sort out my nails, have a bath, exfoliate etc. It helps.