The 9 Scariest Parenting Mistakes (That Even the Best of Us Make)
Here at Raising Empowered Kids, we’re all about storytelling.
And you can imagine how much fun we have with Halloween.
But this year, instead of just sharing more sunny quotes and calm routines, we decided to get a little… daring.
Because even the most mindful parents have their haunting habits.
You know, the ones that show up between bedtime routines and soccer practice, whispering things like, “It’s faster if I just do it myself,” or, “We’ll rest later.”
We’re calling them The 9 Scariest Parenting Mistakes — not because they’re truly frightening, but because every single one of us has met them before.
Here are three of the biggest culprits: 👇
1. The Burnout Boogeyman
He shows up around 10 p.m.—right when you’re answering “just one more email.” He feeds on overcommitment, half-drunk coffee, and the belief that things will slow down soon. Spoiler: they won’t. His weakness? Saying “no” without guilt and remembering that calm parents raise calm kids.
2. The Over-Helper Haunting
This friendly ghost loves to hover, tie shoes, correct homework, and “just finish it for you.” He means well, but every time we let him take over, confidence fades into thin air. The cure? Step back, cheer louder, and let your kids wrestle with their own wins.
3. The “Someday” Spell
“I’ll play later.” “We’ll slow down next weekend.” “We’ll start when things calm down.” This spell sounds harmless—but it freezes joy in place. Break it by starting messy, starting now, and realizing that someday rarely comes on its own.
4. The Achievement Monster
Shiny, loud, and always hungry for more. He devours good intentions—applause for perfect projects, medals, and grades—until joy quietly slips away. Starve him by celebrating effort, not outcome.
5. The Comparison Curse
This sneaky sorcerer strikes mid-scroll, whispering, “Everyone else has it together.” He thrives on highlight reels and half-truths. A quick gratitude list breaks the spell every time.
6. The Toxic Positivity Potion
It’s sparkly, sweet, and secretly sticky. When we pour on “You’re fine!” and “Don’t cry,” we teach our kids that feelings are problems to fix. Let them have the storm and the sunshine—that’s where resilience grows.
7. The Control Creeper
He weaves color-coded webs of reminders, alarms, and “just checking in” messages. At first, it feels organized—then you realize you’re trapped. Snip one strand. Breathe. The world won’t collapse.
8. The Mirror Maze
Our kids reflect back the parts of us we’re still learning to love. It can feel eerie… until we realize the maze isn’t a trap—it’s a teacher. They’re not copying us; they’re helping us grow.
9. The Judgment Jack-O’-Lantern
He smiles bright at every school event, carved with the words “I’ve got this.”
But inside, he flickers with the fear of being judged. When we dim that pressure to look perfect, we make space for something real: connection, laughter, and light that doesn’t burn out.
As we laugh at these spooky-but-true parenting moments, let’s remember what this month has really been about — values and beliefs.
All month long, we’ve been exploring how to raise kids who know what they stand for, even when the world around them tries to tell them who to be.
So before the month wraps up, check out what you might’ve missed from our founders — Adam, Tammy, and Sylvia — each sharing a different way to help kids (and ourselves) stay grounded in what matters most.
Raising humans, not robots.
In an age where technology races ahead, what our children really need isn’t automatons—they need hearts that lead, minds that question, and values that last. Explore how AI and innovation aren’t the threat—they’re the mirror. This month, let’s raise humans, not robots. Read More (5 min)
When Believing Becomes Belonging
In the season of sparkle and stories, what if we helped our children move from believing in magic to be-longing in themselves and others? This article explores how deep connection, shared meaning and co-creation become the roots of real belonging—and how that belonging fuels true belief. Read More (5 min)
Why “Should-ing” Your Kids Shrinks Their Potential
Ever notice how “You should” makes kids shut down? In this article, we explore how guiding our children through their values—not through pressure—ignites real motivation, ownership, and self-belief. Because when tasks connect with what matters to them, we move from obedience to confidence. Read More (4 min)
Something new is coming and it just might change how your family celebrates the holidays forever.
If you’ve ever wished there were a more heart-centered alternative to Elf on the Shelf, you won’t want to miss this.
Join Tammy and Sylvia on Sunday, November 2nd (10 AM PT / 1 PM ET) for a 30-minute live REKINDLE Session where we’ll reveal a new way to keep the magic alive without the myths, the stress, or the guilt.
We’ll share:
• how to turn old traditions into tools for emotional connection
• the true story behind our newest REK creation
• and ways to help your kids grow values that last longer than any holiday season
Registrants will receive the replay video, so make sure you RSVP so you can watch anytime. 🎄 RSVP here >>
As we head into the season of gratitude and giving, take a quiet moment to ask yourself: “What’s one value my child sees me practicing, not just preaching?”
That one reflection can reshape the next season of your family’s story.
And since October is also National Bullying Prevention Month, we want to spotlight one young author who turned her own tough experience into something beautiful.
Meet Faith Cellan, creator of The Adventures of Archer the Axolotl, a heartwarming book series that helps kids celebrate what makes them unique and reminds us all that courage grows stronger when it’s shared.
However your family chooses to mark this week — whether you’re trick-or-treating, cozying up with a story, or simply enjoying a quieter night in — we wish you a fun, safe, and joy-filled close to October.
Because even the monsters we face can teach us how to grow.
Your friends at REK,
P.S. Our last Camp SuperNova session is now enrolling for November 24 take-off! Save your child's seat for an entrepreneurial learning experience they will never forget!