How to Make Parenting Look Like a Breeze (Even When You’re Dying Inside)

     Parenting is one of the toughest jobs out there, and yet, somehow, many of us are expected to make it look effortless. Whether it’s showing up at parent-teacher conferences with a smile or getting the kids ready for their dentist appointment without breaking a sweat, there’s a lot of pressure to look like we have it all together. But let’s be real: sometimes, we’re just barely hanging on. So, how do you make it through those tough days without letting the world see you fall apart? Here are some tips and tricks for faking it until you make it.

1. The Power of a Smile (Even If It’s Fake)

When you’re feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, the last thing you want to do is smile. But you’d be surprised at how much a simple grin can make you feel better, even if it’s forced. A smile has a unique way of releasing endorphins, which can help reduce stress and boost your mood—even when you’re exhausted. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to show the world that you’ve got it together, even if your insides are screaming. 

2. Set Realistic Expectations (Especially for the Dentist Appointment)

One of the hardest parts of parenting is the sheer amount of planning it takes to get everything done. With kids, the to-do list never seems to end, and dental appointments can feel like an added stressor. But here’s the trick: don’t set yourself up for failure by over-promising. When it comes to getting the kids to the dentist, don't aim for perfection. Expect some whining, some delays, and perhaps even a bit of tantrum drama.

Pack a snack or a favorite toy to distract them, and remember to breathe through the moments when things don’t go smoothly. If your child is nervous about the dentist, practice a bit of positive reinforcement before the visit. Tell them stories about how strong and brave they’re going to be. And if the appointment doesn't go according to plan, that's okay! After all, it's all about keeping the peace and getting through it with a sense of calm (even if you have to fake it).

3. Multitask Like a Pro (But Don’t Forget the Toothbrush!)

As a parent, multitasking becomes second nature. Between prepping meals, doing laundry, and managing schedules, it’s easy to forget the small things—like the importance of good oral hygiene. But remember: your kids learn by example. If you want them to brush their teeth without a fight, make it a family routine. Model the behavior you want to see—brush your teeth together as a family, or take turns doing the brushing if you have younger kids.

And when you’re brushing your own teeth, don’t just go through the motions. Use it as a moment to practice mindfulness. Take a few extra seconds to rinse, floss, and maybe even add a little toothpaste with extra fluoride for that fresh, long-lasting feeling. It may seem like a small task in the midst of everything else, but this little habit can help you feel a little more “put together,” even on your toughest days.

4. Fake It Till You Make It with Organized Chaos

If you’re like most parents, you’ve probably been in situations where everything seems to be falling apart at once. There are snacks to pack, homework to review, and errands to run. But even if things feel chaotic, you can make it look like you have it all under control by staying organized. Keep a family calendar where everyone can see it, and designate spots for important items (like your kid’s dental care kit).

Having a routine in place—whether it’s for your kid’s bedtime or morning tooth-brushing ritual—can give the illusion of calm. And if things do get messy, remind yourself that being “together” doesn’t mean everything has to be perfectly in place all the time. Sometimes, just knowing where the toothbrushes are can be a huge win.

5. Take a Mental Break (Even if It’s Just for 5 Minutes)

If you want to keep up the façade of being a breezy, stress-free parent, you’ve got to make time for yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. And while it may seem like there’s no time to sneak away for a break, even a few minutes of “me time” can make a big difference. Whether it’s sipping a cup of coffee while the kids are brushing their teeth, or locking yourself in the bathroom for a quick mental reset, these small breaks help you recharge.

Don’t forget to schedule a dental visit for yourself, too. If you're overdue for a cleaning or checkup, taking care of your own dental health not only improves your smile but gives you a moment of self-care that you deserve.

6. Know That You’re Not Alone

The best tip for surviving the day-to-day grind of parenting is remembering that you’re not the only one struggling. We all have days when everything feels like its too much, and sometimes, the most important thing is knowing that you’re not alone. Chat with other parents about how they handle tough situations, and realize that we’re all just faking it a little bit sometimes.

When it comes to dental visits, if your child is nervous or scared, you’re not the first parent to deal with it—and certainly won’t be the last. Share your concerns with your child’s dentist, and they can offer strategies for making the experience less stressful.

     Parenting may never truly be “effortless,” but with a little practice, you can make it look that way. Smile through the tough days, and remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal—it’s about making it through while still managing to look like you’ve got it all together. And when in doubt, remember that faking it can sometimes be the first step in making it.