MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD

Embracing the Chaos: Why Imperfect Parenting is the New Perfect

Kristen Cook, MD Episode 23

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In this podcast episode, Dr. Cook addresses the myth of perfect parenting, emphasizing that mistakes are inevitable and part of the learning process. They share personal experiences, including a story about a feeding mishap with their infant, to illustrate the guilt and shame parents often feel. The speaker encourages parents to embrace their imperfections and use mistakes as growth opportunities. They outline a three-step process for handling mistakes: taking responsibility, apologizing sincerely, and committing to improvement. Additionally, they stress the importance of modeling healthy emotional responses and accountability for children, fostering a supportive and empathetic environment.


  • The myth of perfect parenting and its unrealistic standards.
  • The inevitability of making mistakes as a parent.
  • The emotional impact of parenting missteps, including guilt and shame.
  • A three-step process for handling mistakes: taking responsibility, apologizing sincerely, and committing to improvement.
  • The importance of modeling healthy emotional responses for children.
  • The significance of sincere apologies in rebuilding trust.
  • The role of open communication in addressing mistakes with children.
  • The value of offering comfort to children after mistakes.
  • Teaching children about accountability and empathy.
  • Reframing mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than failures.

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

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