Things that hurt less than a toddler accidentally head butting you

Dear JAMMers,

My son is 16 months. He is strong and strong-willed. If he does not want to go in his high chair, car seat, or crib - he is going to let you know... by thrashing and accidentally head-butting you.

We are in the last stretch of infant to toddlerhood before he can begin expressing himself more. Trace Adkins tells me I will miss this, so I'll take it all in stride. His little protests are him asserting his feelings since he can't talk yet. Oh boy, I wonder what he will say once he can speak.

His latest obsession? Sitting by himself on the arm of the couch and seeing how slowly he can lean over before he falls. When I put my hands on him to brace him safely, he gets SO MAD and tries to rip my hands away. My couch overall has become a jungle gym to him. I put pillows on the floor around it, and he will still find ways to bump his head - when he isn't bumping my head.

My near-concussed self started getting through these tough parenting moments by making a list of what hurts LESS than these head-butts.

Do you agree?

1. Being ghosted

2. Saying nice to see you again as someone says nice to meet you

3. Going the same direction to kiss someone on the cheek

4. A cavity

5. Your first contraction

6. Not getting Eras Tour tickets

7. A dog leaving your lap to lay alone

8. Stepping on a lego

9. Stubbing your toe in the middle of the night

10. Hitting your head while getting into or out of a car

11. Realizing the '80s is four decades ago

12. Seeing Halloween costumes for the '90's and '00's at Spirit Halloween

13. Getting an invitation to your 15-year or 20-year High School Reunion

14. Seeing Britney Spears' breakdown in 2007

15. The first time someone calls you Ma'am

    
    

    No worries,
    

    Jaclyn