Never in my life did I imagine I would be the mom of three (almost four!) boys. And I could not be happier. Just like every parent, I love my kids so much it hurts. And seeing them all together–playing with Legos, sleeping in their shared room, squished on a church pew, or scootering at the park–makes me swoon. They’re everything I dreamed of and more. That being said, it’s been a bit of a learning curve learning the ways of these little guys. I’d love to share some things I’ve learned from being their mom.

Pee-Pee Teepees Don’t Work

It’s a cute idea and a fun baby shower gift, but they don’t work. 9/10 times covering them with a diaper does the trick and 1/10 you get peed on.

They’re My Little Boyfriends

The best way I can describe it is the feeling of falling in love for the first time, but with three different people that look like you. Ha! I have a crush on each of my kids and I’m not afraid to admit it.

Boys Have Feelings, Too

One of my biggest pet peeves is people telling me or my kids that they don’t have feelings because they’re male. All humans have feelings and it’s crucial to acknowledge them. We happen to have big, big feelings in our home that sometimes accompany tears, yelling, etc. My husband and I reject the phrase ‘boys don’t cry’ and embrace—sometimes impatiently—our kids’ feelings. We’re learning just as much as them as they grow and mature, but we know we want our boys to feel safe and shame-free feeling and showing their feelings. I recently found this book list and can’t wait to dive in.

Nature Potty is Okay

If you’re in the woods and it’s an emergency, peeing in nature is A-okay.

Aim is Important

Put up the seat and aim for the center. Any splashes need to be cleaned up by them, right then.

Let’s Wrestle!

We need to get physical and wrestle, romp, and run every day. My kids will literally shout, Let’s wrestle! And attack each other on the couch. It’s terrifying.

Let’s Cuddle

Grab a blanket and curl up. Boys, at least the ones I have, are super cuddly and affectionate. They like back scratches, having their hair played with, and being held like tiny babies. I’m going to cry myself to sleep the day they don’t want that anymore.

They’re Puppies

Playful, active, jumpy. Every child’s personality and temperament is different, but mine are three month old golden retrievers. When we walk past a patch of grass, they’re suddenly tangled up and rolling around and chasing a ball. Seriously.

The Park is My Best Friend

Whatever grumpiness or frustration irks us, it can be cured at the park. Sunshine, fresh air, playmates, sand, trees, scooter races, swinging, a good snack. The world is good again after an afternoon at the playground.

They Eat…A LOT

This is not exclusive to boys but man, can my kids eat. I’m already buying 5 dozen eggs and two gallons of milk every week. Get your Costco Executive Card ready!

They’re Irresistible as a Group

When I put my kids in a grocery cart or go on a walk together, we become superstars. We transform into your average family of five into “Three brothers!” and no one can handle it. It makes me feel like a million bucks.

Ice Cream for Dinner

They make me tired. (Especially now while I’m pregnant.) They have a lot of energy and they take a lot of energy. After an especially full day, we dodge dinner and have big milkshakes instead. I throw in some fresh or frozen fruit and nuts and call it good.

What about you? Are you a Boy Mom or know one? What have you learned from raising boys? Share in a comment below or comment on Instagram @munchkininc.