100% Jenn!!! I’m an early childhood educator and have been for over 30 years. It's common for young children to struggle with managing their emotions, as they are still learning how to express themselves and regulate their feelings. The water park was not the place to give Jackson a reality check. Also at 4, their imagination is exploding. The lyrics to a song can change, and often do. He is being creative. Let him be creative. Side note, I love watching how you 2 are raising your children!!! Good job Mom & Dad.
Upsetting a toddler out in public makes the day FAR HARDER for the parents. It is easier to do it and continue to enjoy the day rather than having to upset him and take the next several hours to get back to smiles and fun. As a parent I TOTALLY GET THIS!!! (My son is a year younger than Jackson)
Marriage and parenting have one thing in common.....you pick your battles. Some are worth the push back in the moment and some can be revisited later down the road. Life is too short to sweat the small things. Jackson is only 4, there are many life lessons ahead of him, he doesn't have to learn them all right away :)
I always told my kids the truth about winning and losing. When i explained to them, sometimes you win, and some times you don't, but its ok either way. Thats how I did it. You do you and parent your kids the way you think is best. However, my kids didn't get sad that they didn't win everything. They enjoyed seeing their friends win also.
As a parent of a 20, 14 and 7 yr old, I realize I don't know what I'm doing with these kids. Each kid is so uniquely different and you have to parent each of them so differently!
And one more thing. Someone else mentioned that her children didn't get sad if they didn't win or weren't correct but they're happy when their friends win. That's something else you need to instill in him now that he is around other children. Again this is a stage all kids go through or I say most kids, but this is the time to start instilling in him cheer on other people. Give encouragement the same way you want us to encourage you. You have both done a fabulous job with both of your children. Jackson is so bright and full of love. He sensitive because he's been taught that it's okay to express your feelings and I love that. It'll be a little bumpy for a little bit but he will learn swiftly like he does with everything else. ❤
Jenn, your logic is totally sound and you and Tim are such excellent and thoughtful parents. There is indeed a time and place for everything, and everything is a compromise. You're trying to find the balance between respecting his feelings and supporting his self-esteem, and teaching him the hard lessons he will inevitably need to learn, and I think you're doing it exactly right. Stick to your guns! There will always be judgmental people who jump to conclusions about your parenting based on a few seconds of a video without any context for how you handled the situation before or after, and I'm glad you take it in stride and don't let it get to you. If anything, I hope you realize that you are one of the few families on UA-cam that are modeling almost all the best parenting behaviors I've seen, and you are by far one of the best examples I can point to of how to raise a strong, healthy, kind, and emotionally intelligent child in today's environment.
Thank-you for sharing your parenting journey with us! I remember when you all were trying so hard for a family and it’s so nice to see Jenn and Tim as parents and what they do with their boys!
Kids need to learn they won't always be the best or win at everything they do. Especially as they get older and are in school. You don't want him to struggle with being a "sore loser". Parenting is hard and every kid is unique ❤
Just reflecting on my experiences as a child and the way I felt, I think I would have appreciated my parents emphasizing that it’s okay to be wrong separately from times where I am upset. If I’m upset that I’m wrong, it would feel like my feelings are being invalidated. But if it is communicated frequently outside of those instances (maybe when a parent or someone else is wrong), then I think it would have helped me.
I'm not a parent, so I'm not sure if my opinion matters.....however, this is how you successfully be a parent and a youtuber. Don't subject or exploit your children on the internet. Let the kids be kids. Have the emotional tough moments OFF camera. I like that. Other youtubers might be like "hang on, don't cry! We have to grab the camera, this is good content!!" Omg, this is why I love the Trackers. Wholesome, chill, good people.
As far as 'winning' goes with little kids. We always just made it exciting for the person who did win. So, "Yay!!! Mummy won the race, everyone cheer for her" and if they get upset we just said "Its ok, lets be happy for the winner" and ignore tantrums. But everyone's family is different, so you do what feels right for you guys.
As someone who doesn’t have kids, has no interest in having kids, and barely spent much time around kids, it’s interesting to see you guys talk about this stuff. Because yes, my automatic reaction would be “no, you didn’t win” but that’s because I don’t think about how big of a deal it is to them. And that the time/place matters.
I’m so glad you show home-fixing type things. I’m watching it now thinking “this will definitely be useful for me in the future i need to bookmark this video” Tim is so knowledgeable
You learn from your mistakes. You can't win them all. And it is OK. You model that. You win some and you lose some. Expose him to all the cliches. You don't want him to fall apart when he joins a sports team. Prepare him.
But kids also need to learn not to be a bad winner. Imagine them learning that they can appear to win but be kind and tell another child in their class that the other child did better (when they didn’t). Compassion and being kind….a much more important lesson.
I thought that the question in the comments was because of the look on Jackson’s face. He had a look that said “how did I win, if you are already down here? “Like he was truly trying to figure out how did it made sense? For a sensitive child, I think that it is important to give him the tools to deal with upsetting news and situations,because he will encounter upsetting news and situations for the rest of his life. So the earlier he learns how to process these types of things, the better.
I have a 4 year old little boy and I totally understand I call it pick your battles and sometimes it’s just not worth it or the time or the place to challenge their little brains. I talk to my little one about it when it’s the right environment and time and he is more receptive and understands the concepts way more. Keep up the good work guys parenting is a very hard job! 🥰
My four year old was watching this video with us and when Tim showed the salt from the Brita filter she looked puzzled then exclaimed “Tim Tracker keeps his salt outside?!?” …. She thought you kept your table salt outside. It was a great laugh.
The throwback thrill of watching Tim do pool maintenance! I enjoy our water system. Skin feels much less dried out. Using less moisturizer. Not necessarily thrilled with the local, small company. You’re such wise parents. I wondered but trusted your judgment with your kids.
The filter coupler housing adapter I recommend saving. Coming from someone that works as a field technician, we use alot of different hose adapters, hose fittings, cam locks...the list goes on and on. Always scrambling for different parts to do the job right. Integrity and having innovation is important and helps! Save those couplers!!! You may need them once you redo the pool's filtration area. With the Florida's heat and wear and tear, the pvc piping can get worn out, crack, leak and break
Wow Tim installing that filter and other household repairs makes him a real handyman. You guys are a great team and are great parents. You really take the time to enjoy the little precious moments, with your children. Love the wake up hairdo of Oliver, so cute. Good luck with your new water system
As a parent you have to do what you have to do. There's a right time and a wrong time for that conversation (I'm not a parent and even I know that), people don't seem to stop and understand that. When dealing with toddlers you have to know when the right time for something and when it's the wrong time for something.
You need to get him ready for the real world...And you have to teach him to handle his losses and not get upset,,,,Its gonna get worse over time if you dont let him Feel what its like to Not win, stand tall, Your setting him up to be a sore loser...And to have tantrums.... Teach him that not everyone wins all the time, But you had fun doing the task... "Its Not about The Destination its all about the Journey there".. I have a 41 year old son and 39 year old twin daughters... They all couldnt be winners,,,We just focused on the fun we were having
Did you even watch the video? Jenn said that they do teach Jackson hard lessons, and she was going to (or maybe already has) address the winning thing with him, she just chose not to do it at that moment, in public, at the water park, in front of strangers, in the middle of their fun day. That feels totally valid to me, especially if this is one of the first times they need to explain the concept of losing to him. Did you really expect them to stop everything they were doing right there and sit down with Jackson to give a detailed explanation of the comparative merits of winning and losing, the proper way to accept losses and setbacks in life, how to graciously admit defeat, when it's appropriate to be competitive and when it's ok to let things go, and also manage all the new and unexpected emotions he would inevitably have during that type of lesson? Or do you think it makes sense to let it go at that moment, let the family enjoy the rest of their day, and then sit down for that talk later when they're at home in a controlled environment that is both safe for Jackson and won't disturb anyone else- because that's exactly what Jenn said. Parents who choose to give their kids ad hoc "life lessons" in public places are exactly the kinds of people we criticize for poor parenting, and I don't think that's what you're advocating, are you?
You two are fantastic parents and know your children best. It’s a shame you even have to explain yourself. You do you and it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. Your children are amazing little people and will continue to grow up and be so lovely
I'm a single mother of an 18 year-old ADHD son. While he was growing up (and still now), the saying in my head was "pick your battles". Some battles are just not worth fighting in that particular moment. Let them have their fun and it WILL happen that you will be able to teach the lesson.... all in good time. You're doing good as parents. People have to realize by watching your vlogs that they don't see you every minute of every day of parenting.
Jen, never apologize/explain for how you parent your children. You’re a good mom and always go with your gut on what you feel is best for you and your kids.
Literally love your home vlogs, always a favorite to see on my feed!! Also- you’re doing AMAZING parenting your boys 🤍 I’m a first time mom and my 8 month old is still a terrible sleeper and teething has not helped. But I look up to you both so much and remind me they what we do to support, raise and love on our children is no one else’s business. Would love advice from you on so many things, because parenting rocks me some days. Love you guys!!
when Jackson asked "did I win", you didn't necessarily have to answer the question. Instead of telling him that he had won (which wasn't true), you could have said "that's not what's important- did you have fun? And he would have said "yes" and you could have pointed out that that was what was most important-whether or not he had fun. By telling him that he had won, that might have just confused him over what winning really meant. Just my two cents. You guys do a really great job of talking to Jackson and asking him questions all of the time. You can tell that he is a smart kiddo.
I like that suggesting. Maybe next time he wants to "race", suggest to him that instead of racing they just run. Every situation isn't about who comes out on top. It's about having fun, like you mentioned. ❤
Won’t be able to watch until tomorrow, but the title got me to thinking … My twins are nearly a full year older than Jackson and my wife and I have discovered that one of our favorite things about the home vlogs is seeing Jackson hit various milestones and such that our girls hit around a year before. It’s a cool way to think back and remember all the various things they did. When you two were talking about that bolt the other day and being asked to extend the story, my wife and I turned to each other with our jaws dropped. We couldn’t believe that other 4 year olds did that. It was fun to think back on the stories our daughters had us extend. All that to say, we appreciate your home vlogs and bringing back so many memories of what our life was like a year ago!
I hate that other people feel the need to judge other people’s parenting. I think you guys are amazing parents and genuinely think of you guys when I think about how I’d like to raise my daughter. You’re both amazing and your kids are wonderful.
Hope the water softener machine helps y'all. Oh and The kids are being so spoiled, a slide indoors 😂 Very fun. Don't spoil them to much though, kids need to learn about certain real world stuff. The younger the better. Oh, and if Jackson looses a game he needs to know loosing is apart of life, he will throw a tantrum, but he needs to learn at a young age. If you wait to correct him, it will only hurt him when he gets older. Parents must teach children how to follow rules and not get upset when they don't get what they want. I seen what children become, when parents don't teach child at very young age, that loosing is a part of life. You learn from your mistakes or loss and strive to do better next time. Anyway, hope things go well with water. This was a nice home vlog. Be Safe Take Care 😊❤❤❤❤
Hi Tim, I have PV solar panels and we use an electric immersion heater. When we have excess power that is being fed back to the grid we divert it to heat the water for free. It’s a system like SolarImmersion. Might not apply to you as you have a battery system on your house but worth a look maybe.
My husband and I just had this discussion. We have a 12 and 15 year old and still deal with this. Each kiddo is different. No parent wants their kid to feel sad hurt or disappointed. You will know what you need to do for that kiddo. All things help us grow good and bad. It’s the bad we learn from and how to deal with it moving forward. It’s not easy being in the public eye though so you will hear lots of “parenting advice” you do you.
Tim regarding the extra parts. I would have used the parts that came with new container. Perhaps have kept older parts for a time to have as emergency backup for awhile.
I agree with Jenn waiting to tell Jackson and explain about winning another time. Not everything has to be in the moment or on camera. Pick your battles and find the right time. 💯 Right
People are always going to have opinions about how to raise your child, however, it honestly is not any of their business! As long as you're NOT hurting/doing harm to your children, you're doing fine! My advice, just do the best that you can!
It’s okay Jackson, I’ve also been shocked when I find out I’ve been singing song lyrics wrong for years. But in all seriousness, you are the parents and you know what’s best for your buddies ❤️
My company makes the tanks that store water... the president of my company always yells at people for calling it a "hot water heater"... he always says "you can't heat water that's already hot... it's just a water heater!" 🤣😂
I know they read to the kids a lot. I am sure there are lots of books that can help kids learn about sportsmanship in various games, and life situations. Hopefully those will spark teachable moments, and conversations about winning and losing. 😊
Soft water is amazing! I had soft water for years and just moved to a place with hard water and I miss soft water so much. Soon you guys will be able to tell if anywhere uses hard vs soft water because of the difference. You’ll love soft water!
My now 14yr old’s 1st grade teacher once told me that my kid reminded her of one of her kids. High intelligence with a side of stubbornness and high emotion, and that they often go together. Waiting for the right calm time is exactly right. You are doing great!
We had this struggle with my son, but it came to a head because he started fighting with other kids to be first in line at school in preschool and kindergarten. So we had to talk to him about not being right or first is not the end of the world. We also talked about scenarios of when you don't want to be first to do something, that some times standing back and watching is better. However, it is a reoccurring discussion we have to have because he is super competitive. We've also found playong card games where he doesn't always win has been a helpful, safe environment to teach how to deal with his feelings.
I think that you know your kids, and you know the right and wrong time to make a point. I always say you have to pick your battles. Also there`s always going to be people who feel they need to correct you; not just with kids, with life choices in general and i wouldnt take it too seriously.
I think every kid is different and so the parent(s) can decide in the moment. My parents were very straightforward with us growing up and never let us win anything but I know that style of parenting doesn't work for everyone. So I think you do what you think is right and let others think what they will. And you are so right about not always reacting in the moment and waiting for another time to address something like that. For instance, now you know how upset he got about not getting the lyrics right so you could do the same thing to yourself (pretend like you got something wrong) in front of him and react in a different way and show him it's ok to make mistakes. I personally think that it has more to do with how you're behaving outside of these moments and so telling him he won isn't that big of a deal in the Grand scheme of things. Now if you continued with this as he ages (telling him how great he is etc no matter what) then he'll probably be one of those people on American idol who you turn to your friend and say "how the heck did they think they could compete on this show?" And the contestants are always like "my family raves about my singing voice". 😄. But at the end of the day. He's your kid, so you do what you think is right and I'm sure he'll turn out fine. He's going to learn soon enough how harsh this world can be so why not let him live his fantasy from time to time while he's still a kid.
My daughter has high functioning autism and she HATES to not be first or will. No matter what we say or do, she has the hardest time understanding. The biggest issue is at school, with her always having to win and be the best.
In reference to Jackson always wanting to win. Jackson loves books. There are several children’s books on this subject. Maybe books will be easier than trying to sit down and talking with him. You’re doing great as parents. Do what you think is right for your children, not what others say. Also, please take this as a compliment. Oliver reminds me of Jack Jack from the Incredibles.
Re: Winning. Little big feelings talk about changing things to being less competitive? Like when they win a game, you don't cheer, but say You worked really hard at that! You didn't give up! But there's definitely a time and place to let them down... because yes even though it's a small thing, it's not to them. With Tim and the song, I agree, you go with Jackson saying you can both be right. Compromise.
I'm interested to see how the water filtration thing works out! And in terms of what you were saying about the kids: From what you've shared here on UA-cam, you're both doing a fantastic job as parents. Don't let the nosy people in the comments get to you.
I’m so glad to be living back in Scotland again with soft water. I lived in England for 15 years with hard water and my hair was horrible and dry, my kettle was replaced yearly because it was ruined, our shower heads went horrible quickly etc etc I love the soft Scottish water!
I have 2 boys with a 6 year age gap. My youngest is now 10 but still loves cuddles all the time. I hope it doesn't change any time soon. Enjoy those days, tíme flies ❤
Oliver and Jackson are so fortunate to have such loving caring Parents. My Parents were like that and I still many years later, feel their love and remember what they taught me.I do wish I had listened to their advice more often though..Oh well...By the way great move on the water softener System. We had one, loved it.❤❤
its actually sol. it comes from the system called "solfege" which is used to teach pitch. the syllables (do re mi fa sol la ti do) come from the latin words of a specific hymn
I think as he gets older he will understand these things better. Its a learning process. You know your own child's personality and how they will react.
It's part of as a parent, learning to, "pick your battles," as it were, even though this one with the, "Did I Win," thing maybe didn't Seem like a battle situation, You Know Your Child, & Their Emotions, and you're right, under those circumstances, you were in a public place, with other friends & family around you that day, and handling that differently could Easily have put a total damper on the entire rest of the day for you guts and everybody else who was there with you that day, so all things considered, in that case, I don't think I would have handled it much differently than you did, and honestly I feel that was swift thinking on your part. Now for the kicker, and this is probably going to make me & what I just wrote Very Unpopular on this channel here in tge comments, bur I've learned over time to grow a pair of big, broad shoulders, so I think I can take it whatever comes my way from this. I have no human children of my own, never have and at age 58, soon to be age 59, and single yo boot, I don't forsee that changing any time in the near future, but I took a whole battery of courses in Early Childhood Development, as well as Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, which included some Child Psychology courses, , so there's some hands-on experience here in dealing in emotionally healthy ways with Other people's children, which I feel is Even More important to get right the 1st time and Every time, because what I give them in the classroom, on All Levels, is going to go home with them to Mom & Dad, and in reality it Better align properly with what's being taught by them in the home or all of a sudden there's going to be At Least One Very Confused Kid There In My Classroom, And I Guarantee You I'm Going To Hear Back About It From At Least The Child, If Not Daddy & Mom, Too, so in a classroom setting you need to be So Much More Extremely Careful & Cautious About Everything In Front Of Other People's Children!! What you say, what you do, your facial expressions, your body language, even what & how you think because one seemingly tiny little slip-up in front of even just one child let alone a whole classroom full of them, , and you could Easily find yourself under fire or out of a job altogether in less than a heartbeat.
Have the talk sooner than later because as he gets older and in higher grades he needs to know not everyone wins. You would rather him be upset at home and knowing it’s something you taught him and not at school since kids can be mean. I totally understand picking and choosing your battles!! I have two totally opposite boys. (Now Grown!)
We had a whole house water softener and filter put in, and it was the best decision. We were told during installation not to water the plants/grass from the house without first turning off the valve for the softener, because the salt in the water can kill the plant. I appreciate being able to drink water from any tap and not taste chlorine or other chemicals.
I’m raising my 7 year old grandson who has ADHD. He used to get really frustrated and angry when he lost a game. Next time we played I purposely lost then shook his hand and said great game, well played. He now does this every time he loses. Pick your battles, they learn how to control emotions eventually.
My daughter is grown up and has an advanced college degree and I am a retired senior citizen also degreed. Regarding winning and loosing abilities seem to have affects on avenues of communication and social skills, ethics, female and male expectations, anger management, positive and negative ideations, emotions, coping skills especially in difficult times, goal setting et al. Very complicated. Stepping back and looking at the bigger picture will show you your family's unique expectations for your children which most likely will be different for each of your children who might not care as they grow up. Best thing is to support each other and keep positive, moving forward.
My opinion - let kids win or think they won, tell them they’re #1 even if they aren’t. They have the whole rest of their life to figure out what it feels like to lose or not be first. That’s ok and you can work through those moments later on when they’re older and help them build strategies with how to cope when things don’t go their way.
We have had water softener in our home for many, many years, and now we can't live without it! It's better for your hair, skin, everything! Florida water is so hard. Once you get used to the soft water, you'll love it.
as someone who drinks out of a filter from the sink (I don´t remember what kind it is) my filtered water tastes different then my aunt´s water from her fridge. So you might notice that. Shes in the next town so that also doesn´t help.... The filter thing you will need if you ever want to ¨replace¨ it. As someone who grew up in music since third grade to collage, you will learn very quickly how hard it is, and there will be LOTS of tears and screaming and ¨I don´t want to learn to read music¨ but you need to learn to read music. choir is hard. Someone in school will tell him if hes wrong and then there will be a fight, I think you handed it fine. Also i think So and Sol is different from place to place, like how you say sandwitch; I say Grinder. I´ll ask my uncle about that next time i see him, but that´s what I think.
My Mom said you should learn one thing a day but with learning about Palm and Date trees, hard water and that pipe wretch thinky....I'm good until next week. Have fun doing laundry!
Jenn, never be concerned with viewers comments on your boys. You are correct, you and Tim know your sons. Jackson will learn about winning and losing if and when he plays team sports. He just has to learn to be a gracious winner and loser. Let him know he is human and we all make mistakes in life. He just has to learn if he fails, not have a fit, rather realize the mistake and own up to it and improve to not make it again. From my view, you are both exceptional parents.
We have a toddler who’s the same age as Jackson (born in December). We’ve learned to choose your battles. And then if their feelings and emotions are still big reactions, divert the energy to something else. It works 3 out 5 times. I’ll gladly take those odds. You’re not alone, it’s rough at this age. ❤
You will notice Jen when you’re doing laundry when you’re having a bubble bath when you’re doing dishes, the soft water will make you have more bubbles than expected so be very careful when you’re doing your clothes. You don’t put to much soap.
I think kids can beat themselves up if they don't get it perfect/right the first time. When he got the song lyrics wrong is a great way to use your personal experiences. How many of us have sang the wrong words to a song (for years sometimes) LOL. Learning to laugh about it. I would play games with the kids and celebrate all of us. "Great game! That was so much fun. You did that move/play/card and almost got me."
I remember that song from when I was young. Instead of singing Do-Re-Mi-Fa-So-La-Ti, my brother would sing do-re-mi-fa-so-latida. Singing latida in a grand gesture and loving ending the song that way. Cracked us up every time :)
I definitely think it’s fine to coddle, there’s always a right time and place, and you know your kid. Choose your battles as they say! 😂 When it comes up organically it may you be great to give him an example of when you got a lyric wrong - like when a popular song comes on, and you remembered that you always thought it was one thing, but it turned out it was another, and you didn’t find out until much later, & that everyone does this at some point & it’s okay 🎶 🙂♥️ I mean there’s whole ‘threads’ dedicated to misheard lyrics after all! 😆
Idk if you will read this but my son has the same slide since he was 11 months. I taught him how to go down by turning around and sliding down like on his belly. That way it is safer for him to slide down without help
That's what I'd miss the most if I moved from Scotland; tap Highland spring water . Plus I used to always wonder why we sold large bottles of conditioner - as we only need a spot. The water helps your hair look better
I think if you are not honest with him and tell him it's okay to feel this way emotionally it happens to the best of us and even moms and dads can get things wrong too and explain how he learned something it wasn't as it seemed at first and hug him. I also agree doing it on camera would never okay.
100% Jenn!!! I’m an early childhood educator and have been for over 30 years. It's common for young children to struggle with managing their emotions, as they are still learning how to express themselves and regulate their feelings. The water park was not the place to give Jackson a reality check. Also at 4, their imagination is exploding. The lyrics to a song can change, and often do. He is being creative. Let him be creative. Side note, I love watching how you 2 are raising your children!!! Good job Mom & Dad.
Upsetting a toddler out in public makes the day FAR HARDER for the parents. It is easier to do it and continue to enjoy the day rather than having to upset him and take the next several hours to get back to smiles and fun. As a parent I TOTALLY GET THIS!!! (My son is a year younger than Jackson)
Marriage and parenting have one thing in common.....you pick your battles. Some are worth the push back in the moment and some can be revisited later down the road. Life is too short to sweat the small things. Jackson is only 4, there are many life lessons ahead of him, he doesn't have to learn them all right away :)
I always told my kids the truth about winning and losing. When i explained to them, sometimes you win, and some times you don't, but its ok either way. Thats how I did it. You do you and parent your kids the way you think is best. However, my kids didn't get sad that they didn't win everything. They enjoyed seeing their friends win also.
I’m the same I don’t lie or sugar coat it lol. I let them know you didn’t win but it’s ok.
As a parent of a 20, 14 and 7 yr old, I realize I don't know what I'm doing with these kids. Each kid is so uniquely different and you have to parent each of them so differently!
And one more thing. Someone else mentioned that her children didn't get sad if they didn't win or weren't correct but they're happy when their friends win. That's something else you need to instill in him now that he is around other children. Again this is a stage all kids go through or I say most kids, but this is the time to start instilling in him cheer on other people. Give encouragement the same way you want us to encourage you. You have both done a fabulous job with both of your children. Jackson is so bright and full of love. He sensitive because he's been taught that it's okay to express your feelings and I love that. It'll be a little bumpy for a little bit but he will learn swiftly like he does with everything else. ❤
Jenn, your logic is totally sound and you and Tim are such excellent and thoughtful parents. There is indeed a time and place for everything, and everything is a compromise. You're trying to find the balance between respecting his feelings and supporting his self-esteem, and teaching him the hard lessons he will inevitably need to learn, and I think you're doing it exactly right. Stick to your guns! There will always be judgmental people who jump to conclusions about your parenting based on a few seconds of a video without any context for how you handled the situation before or after, and I'm glad you take it in stride and don't let it get to you. If anything, I hope you realize that you are one of the few families on UA-cam that are modeling almost all the best parenting behaviors I've seen, and you are by far one of the best examples I can point to of how to raise a strong, healthy, kind, and emotionally intelligent child in today's environment.
Thank-you for sharing your parenting journey with us! I remember when you all were trying so hard for a family and it’s so nice to see Jenn and Tim as parents and what they do with their boys!
Kids need to learn they won't always be the best or win at everything they do. Especially as they get older and are in school. You don't want him to struggle with being a "sore loser". Parenting is hard and every kid is unique ❤
Just reflecting on my experiences as a child and the way I felt, I think I would have appreciated my parents emphasizing that it’s okay to be wrong separately from times where I am upset. If I’m upset that I’m wrong, it would feel like my feelings are being invalidated. But if it is communicated frequently outside of those instances (maybe when a parent or someone else is wrong), then I think it would have helped me.
I'm not a parent, so I'm not sure if my opinion matters.....however, this is how you successfully be a parent and a youtuber. Don't subject or exploit your children on the internet. Let the kids be kids. Have the emotional tough moments OFF camera. I like that. Other youtubers might be like "hang on, don't cry! We have to grab the camera, this is good content!!" Omg, this is why I love the Trackers. Wholesome, chill, good people.
As far as 'winning' goes with little kids. We always just made it exciting for the person who did win. So, "Yay!!! Mummy won the race, everyone cheer for her" and if they get upset we just said "Its ok, lets be happy for the winner" and ignore tantrums. But everyone's family is different, so you do what feels right for you guys.
As someone who doesn’t have kids, has no interest in having kids, and barely spent much time around kids, it’s interesting to see you guys talk about this stuff. Because yes, my automatic reaction would be “no, you didn’t win” but that’s because I don’t think about how big of a deal it is to them. And that the time/place matters.
I’m so glad you show home-fixing type things. I’m watching it now thinking “this will definitely be useful for me in the future i need to bookmark this video” Tim is so knowledgeable
Oliver's Billy Idol hair is adorable ❤.
Oliver is just soooo cute!!! I love his hair!!
You learn from your mistakes. You can't win them all. And it is OK. You model that. You win some and you lose some. Expose him to all the cliches. You don't want him to fall apart when he joins a sports team. Prepare him.
Exactly!! I thought the same thing!!😊
Kids don’t have to learn things immediately. Sometimes you let it go and kids learn in steps. Good job Trackers.
But kids also need to learn not to be a bad winner. Imagine them learning that they can appear to win but be kind and tell another child in their class that the other child did better (when they didn’t). Compassion and being kind….a much more important lesson.
I thought that the question in the comments was because of the look on Jackson’s face. He had a look that said “how did I win, if you are already down here? “Like he was truly trying to figure out how did it made sense? For a sensitive child, I think that it is important to give him the tools to deal with upsetting news and situations,because he will encounter upsetting news and situations for the rest of his life. So the earlier he learns how to process these types of things, the better.
I have a 4 year old little boy and I totally understand I call it pick your battles and sometimes it’s just not worth it or the time or the place to challenge their little brains. I talk to my little one about it when it’s the right environment and time and he is more receptive and understands the concepts way more. Keep up the good work guys parenting is a very hard job! 🥰
My four year old was watching this video with us and when Tim showed the salt from the Brita filter she looked puzzled then exclaimed “Tim Tracker keeps his salt outside?!?” …. She thought you kept your table salt outside. It was a great laugh.
The throwback thrill of watching Tim do pool maintenance!
I enjoy our water system. Skin feels much less dried out. Using less moisturizer. Not necessarily thrilled with the local, small company.
You’re such wise parents. I wondered but trusted your judgment with your kids.
The filter coupler housing adapter I recommend saving. Coming from someone that works as a field technician, we use alot of different hose adapters, hose fittings, cam locks...the list goes on and on. Always scrambling for different parts to do the job right. Integrity and having innovation is important and helps! Save those couplers!!! You may need them once you redo the pool's filtration area. With the Florida's heat and wear and tear, the pvc piping can get worn out, crack, leak and break
Wow Tim installing that filter and other household repairs makes him a real handyman. You guys are a great team and are great parents. You really take the time to enjoy the little precious moments, with your children. Love the wake up hairdo of Oliver, so cute. Good luck with your new water system
As a parent you have to do what you have to do. There's a right time and a wrong time for that conversation (I'm not a parent and even I know that), people don't seem to stop and understand that. When dealing with toddlers you have to know when the right time for something and when it's the wrong time for something.
You need to get him ready for the real world...And you have to teach him to handle his losses and not get upset,,,,Its gonna get worse over time if you dont let him Feel what its like to Not win, stand tall, Your setting him up to be a sore loser...And to have tantrums.... Teach him that not everyone wins all the time, But you had fun doing the task... "Its Not about The Destination its all about the Journey there".. I have a 41 year old son and 39 year old twin daughters... They all couldnt be winners,,,We just focused on the fun we were having
Did you even watch the video? Jenn said that they do teach Jackson hard lessons, and she was going to (or maybe already has) address the winning thing with him, she just chose not to do it at that moment, in public, at the water park, in front of strangers, in the middle of their fun day. That feels totally valid to me, especially if this is one of the first times they need to explain the concept of losing to him. Did you really expect them to stop everything they were doing right there and sit down with Jackson to give a detailed explanation of the comparative merits of winning and losing, the proper way to accept losses and setbacks in life, how to graciously admit defeat, when it's appropriate to be competitive and when it's ok to let things go, and also manage all the new and unexpected emotions he would inevitably have during that type of lesson? Or do you think it makes sense to let it go at that moment, let the family enjoy the rest of their day, and then sit down for that talk later when they're at home in a controlled environment that is both safe for Jackson and won't disturb anyone else- because that's exactly what Jenn said.
Parents who choose to give their kids ad hoc "life lessons" in public places are exactly the kinds of people we criticize for poor parenting, and I don't think that's what you're advocating, are you?
You two are fantastic parents and know your children best. It’s a shame you even have to explain yourself. You do you and it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. Your children are amazing little people and will continue to grow up and be so lovely
I'm a single mother of an 18 year-old ADHD son. While he was growing up (and still now), the saying in my head was "pick your battles". Some battles are just not worth fighting in that particular moment. Let them have their fun and it WILL happen that you will be able to teach the lesson.... all in good time. You're doing good as parents. People have to realize by watching your vlogs that they don't see you every minute of every day of parenting.
You guys are great parents.I don't think you need to explain to anybody Jen.Everybody raises children in their own way God bless ❤
"No you didn't win but did you have fun? That's all that counts! What was your favorite part?" Would be such a good redirection too :)
Jen, never apologize/explain for how you parent your children. You’re a good mom and always go with your gut on what you feel is best for you and your kids.
Literally love your home vlogs, always a favorite to see on my feed!! Also- you’re doing AMAZING parenting your boys 🤍 I’m a first time mom and my 8 month old is still a terrible sleeper and teething has not helped. But I look up to you both so much and remind me they what we do to support, raise and love on our children is no one else’s business. Would love advice from you on so many things, because parenting rocks me some days. Love you guys!!
when Jackson asked "did I win", you didn't necessarily have to answer the question. Instead of telling him that he had won (which wasn't true), you could have said "that's not what's important- did you have fun? And he would have said "yes" and you could have pointed out that that was what was most important-whether or not he had fun. By telling him that he had won, that might have just confused him over what winning really meant. Just my two cents. You guys do a really great job of talking to Jackson and asking him questions all of the time. You can tell that he is a smart kiddo.
I like that suggesting. Maybe next time he wants to "race", suggest to him that instead of racing they just run. Every situation isn't about who comes out on top. It's about having fun, like you mentioned. ❤
Won’t be able to watch until tomorrow, but the title got me to thinking … My twins are nearly a full year older than Jackson and my wife and I have discovered that one of our favorite things about the home vlogs is seeing Jackson hit various milestones and such that our girls hit around a year before. It’s a cool way to think back and remember all the various things they did. When you two were talking about that bolt the other day and being asked to extend the story, my wife and I turned to each other with our jaws dropped. We couldn’t believe that other 4 year olds did that. It was fun to think back on the stories our daughters had us extend. All that to say, we appreciate your home vlogs and bringing back so many memories of what our life was like a year ago!
So so adorable jenn makes my heart melt seeing you hugg your baby boy. Love ❤️ love 💕 love 💗 it.
I hate that other people feel the need to judge other people’s parenting. I think you guys are amazing parents and genuinely think of you guys when I think about how I’d like to raise my daughter. You’re both amazing and your kids are wonderful.
Born in the 50”s…. Drank from the hose, public “ bubblers”, parents had no idea where we were…..good times. Lol
Hope the water softener machine helps y'all. Oh and The kids are being so spoiled, a slide indoors 😂 Very fun. Don't spoil them to much though, kids need to learn about certain real world stuff. The younger the better. Oh, and if Jackson looses a game he needs to know loosing is apart of life, he will throw a tantrum, but he needs to learn at a young age. If you wait to correct him, it will only hurt him when he gets older. Parents must teach children how to follow rules and not get upset when they don't get what they want. I seen what children become, when parents don't teach child at very young age, that loosing is a part of life. You learn from your mistakes or loss and strive to do better next time. Anyway, hope things go well with water. This was a nice home vlog. Be Safe Take Care 😊❤❤❤❤
Hi Tim, I have PV solar panels and we use an electric immersion heater. When we have excess power that is being fed back to the grid we divert it to heat the water for free. It’s a system like SolarImmersion. Might not apply to you as you have a battery system on your house but worth a look maybe.
As a fellow mom of a 4 yr old boy I’m with you Jen!!! There is always a time for everything! You guys are awesome parents 🤗
My husband and I just had this discussion. We have a 12 and 15 year old and still deal with this. Each kiddo is different. No parent wants their kid to feel sad hurt or disappointed. You will know what you need to do for that kiddo. All things help us grow good and bad. It’s the bad we learn from and how to deal with it moving forward. It’s not easy being in the public eye though so you will hear lots of “parenting advice” you do you.
Tim regarding the extra parts. I would have used the parts that came with new container. Perhaps have kept older parts for a time to have as emergency backup for awhile.
I agree with Jenn waiting to tell Jackson and explain about winning another time. Not everything has to be in the moment or on camera. Pick your battles and find the right time. 💯 Right
People are always going to have opinions about how to raise your child, however, it honestly is not any of their business! As long as you're NOT hurting/doing harm to your children, you're doing fine! My advice, just do the best that you can!
Tim is such a great great dad love it 🥰
It’s okay Jackson, I’ve also been shocked when I find out I’ve been singing song lyrics wrong for years.
But in all seriousness, you are the parents and you know what’s best for your buddies ❤️
Everyone has their own way of dealing with stuff. None of it is the wrong way, you just do whatever you feel is the best thing for your family ❤
My company makes the tanks that store water... the president of my company always yells at people for calling it a "hot water heater"... he always says "you can't heat water that's already hot... it's just a water heater!" 🤣😂
I know they read to the kids a lot. I am sure there are lots of books that can help kids learn about sportsmanship in various games, and life situations. Hopefully those will spark teachable moments, and conversations about winning and losing. 😊
Soft water is amazing! I had soft water for years and just moved to a place with hard water and I miss soft water so much. Soon you guys will be able to tell if anywhere uses hard vs soft water because of the difference. You’ll love soft water!
My now 14yr old’s 1st grade teacher once told me that my kid reminded her of one of her kids. High intelligence with a side of stubbornness and high emotion, and that they often go together. Waiting for the right calm time is exactly right. You are doing great!
When did that all balance out?? Dealing with this exact thing right now and it’s tough!
We had this struggle with my son, but it came to a head because he started fighting with other kids to be first in line at school in preschool and kindergarten. So we had to talk to him about not being right or first is not the end of the world. We also talked about scenarios of when you don't want to be first to do something, that some times standing back and watching is better. However, it is a reoccurring discussion we have to have because he is super competitive. We've also found playong card games where he doesn't always win has been a helpful, safe environment to teach how to deal with his feelings.
Awesome, totally agree you know your child better than anyone so whatever works best for you ❤
I think that you know your kids, and you know the right and wrong time to make a point. I always say you have to pick your battles. Also there`s always going to be people who feel they need to correct you; not just with kids, with life choices in general and i wouldnt take it too seriously.
I think every kid is different and so the parent(s) can decide in the moment. My parents were very straightforward with us growing up and never let us win anything but I know that style of parenting doesn't work for everyone. So I think you do what you think is right and let others think what they will. And you are so right about not always reacting in the moment and waiting for another time to address something like that. For instance, now you know how upset he got about not getting the lyrics right so you could do the same thing to yourself (pretend like you got something wrong) in front of him and react in a different way and show him it's ok to make mistakes. I personally think that it has more to do with how you're behaving outside of these moments and so telling him he won isn't that big of a deal in the Grand scheme of things. Now if you continued with this as he ages (telling him how great he is etc no matter what) then he'll probably be one of those people on American idol who you turn to your friend and say "how the heck did they think they could compete on this show?" And the contestants are always like "my family raves about my singing voice". 😄.
But at the end of the day. He's your kid, so you do what you think is right and I'm sure he'll turn out fine. He's going to learn soon enough how harsh this world can be so why not let him live his fantasy from time to time while he's still a kid.
My daughter has high functioning autism and she HATES to not be first or will. No matter what we say or do, she has the hardest time understanding. The biggest issue is at school, with her always having to win and be the best.
I love yall. There is a time…the time that fits YOUR family. What works best for some children not best for others.
You are both amazing parents, and it shows by the happiness and intelligence of your beautiful children. ❤
In reference to Jackson always wanting to win. Jackson loves books. There are several children’s books on this subject. Maybe books will be easier than trying to sit down and talking with him. You’re doing great as parents. Do what you think is right for your children, not what others say. Also, please take this as a compliment. Oliver reminds me of Jack Jack from the Incredibles.
Re: Winning. Little big feelings talk about changing things to being less competitive? Like when they win a game, you don't cheer, but say You worked really hard at that! You didn't give up!
But there's definitely a time and place to let them down... because yes even though it's a small thing, it's not to them. With Tim and the song, I agree, you go with Jackson saying you can both be right. Compromise.
We do this with my 5yo. When we win, we say “good game” to the other players (my kid added a hand shake on their own) ❤
Do you guys have a pool system so you don’t have to add chemicals ? My mother had it and it was so nice to swim in it
I'm interested to see how the water filtration thing works out! And in terms of what you were saying about the kids: From what you've shared here on UA-cam, you're both doing a fantastic job as parents. Don't let the nosy people in the comments get to you.
I’m so glad to be living back in Scotland again with soft water. I lived in England for 15 years with hard water and my hair was horrible and dry, my kettle was replaced yearly because it was ruined, our shower heads went horrible quickly etc etc I love the soft Scottish water!
I am a little late to this video but I love the healthy communication between you and Tim 🫶🏼
Somewhere over the rainbow. Weigh a pie. I still sing that to this day. I like it.
I have 2 boys with a 6 year age gap. My youngest is now 10 but still loves cuddles all the time. I hope it doesn't change any time soon. Enjoy those days, tíme flies ❤
Oliver and Jackson are so fortunate to have such loving caring Parents. My Parents were like that and I still many years later, feel their love and remember what they taught me.I do wish I had listened to their advice more often though..Oh well...By the way great move on the water softener System. We had one, loved it.❤❤
It's actually "SO". The lyrics are do-re-mi-fa-so-la-ti-do. That's why it's a "needle pulling thread" because of the homonymic words so and sew.
That’s what I thought too until I looked it up and some people do spell it sol. I was shocked!
its actually sol. it comes from the system called "solfege" which is used to teach pitch. the syllables (do re mi fa sol la ti do) come from the latin words of a specific hymn
I think as he gets older he will understand these things better. Its a learning process. You know your own child's personality and how they will react.
Bobby Boucher would be so impressed with your high quality H2O!💦 😂
It's part of as a parent, learning to, "pick your battles," as it were, even though this one with the, "Did I Win," thing maybe didn't Seem like a battle situation, You Know Your Child, & Their Emotions, and you're right, under those circumstances, you were in a public place, with other friends & family around you that day, and handling that differently could Easily have put a total damper on the entire rest of the day for you guts and everybody else who was there with you that day, so all things considered, in that case, I don't think I would have handled it much differently than you did, and honestly I feel that was swift thinking on your part. Now for the kicker, and this is probably going to make me & what I just wrote Very Unpopular on this channel here in tge comments, bur I've learned over time to grow a pair of big, broad shoulders, so I think I can take it whatever comes my way from this. I have no human children of my own, never have and at age 58, soon to be age 59, and single yo boot, I don't forsee that changing any time in the near future, but I took a whole battery of courses in Early Childhood Development, as well as Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, which included some Child Psychology courses, , so there's some hands-on experience here in dealing in emotionally healthy ways with Other people's children, which I feel is Even More important to get right the 1st time and Every time, because what I give them in the classroom, on All Levels, is going to go home with them to Mom & Dad, and in reality it Better align properly with what's being taught by them in the home or all of a sudden there's going to be At Least One Very Confused Kid There In My Classroom, And I Guarantee You I'm Going To Hear Back About It From At Least The Child, If Not Daddy & Mom, Too, so in a classroom setting you need to be So Much More Extremely Careful & Cautious About Everything In Front Of Other People's Children!! What you say, what you do, your facial expressions, your body language, even what & how you think because one seemingly tiny little slip-up in front of even just one child let alone a whole classroom full of them, , and you could Easily find yourself under fire or out of a job altogether in less than a heartbeat.
I wonder if that slide would work on a bed too? Or are there bed specific slides?
Have the talk sooner than later because as he gets older and in higher grades he needs to know not everyone wins. You would rather him be upset at home and knowing it’s something you taught him and not at school since kids can be mean. I totally understand picking and choosing your battles!! I have two totally opposite boys. (Now Grown!)
We had a whole house water softener and filter put in, and it was the best decision. We were told during installation not to water the plants/grass from the house without first turning off the valve for the softener, because the salt in the water can kill the plant. I appreciate being able to drink water from any tap and not taste chlorine or other chemicals.
I’m raising my 7 year old grandson who has ADHD. He used to get really frustrated and angry when he lost a game. Next time we played I purposely lost then shook his hand and said great game, well played. He now does this every time he loses. Pick your battles, they learn how to control emotions eventually.
My daughter is grown up and has an advanced college degree and I am a retired senior citizen also degreed. Regarding winning and loosing abilities seem to have affects on avenues of communication and social skills, ethics, female and male expectations, anger management, positive and negative ideations, emotions, coping skills especially in difficult times, goal setting et al. Very complicated. Stepping back and looking at the bigger picture will show you your family's unique expectations for your children which most likely will be different for each of your children who might not care as they grow up. Best thing is to support each other and keep positive, moving forward.
We try to cut the seeds before they bloom on the palm trees that way they don’t bloom or make a mess.
I like your Brita water idea. I noticed my hair looked so beautiful on the cruise and that water is super filtered.
Toss the extra pieces. You won’t remember where you put them if you ever need them again 😂. You guys really are amazing parents.
My opinion - let kids win or think they won, tell them they’re #1 even if they aren’t. They have the whole rest of their life to figure out what it feels like to lose or not be first. That’s ok and you can work through those moments later on when they’re older and help them build strategies with how to cope when things don’t go their way.
I love Jen’s hair so much!
We have had water softener in our home for many, many years, and now we can't live without it! It's better for your hair, skin, everything! Florida water is so hard. Once you get used to the soft water, you'll love it.
as someone who drinks out of a filter from the sink (I don´t remember what kind it is) my filtered water tastes different then my aunt´s water from her fridge. So you might notice that. Shes in the next town so that also doesn´t help.... The filter thing you will need if you ever want to ¨replace¨ it. As someone who grew up in music since third grade to collage, you will learn very quickly how hard it is, and there will be LOTS of tears and screaming and ¨I don´t want to learn to read music¨ but you need to learn to read music. choir is hard. Someone in school will tell him if hes wrong and then there will be a fight, I think you handed it fine.
Also i think So and Sol is different from place to place, like how you say sandwitch; I say Grinder. I´ll ask my uncle about that next time i see him, but that´s what I think.
My Mom said you should learn one thing a day but with learning about Palm and Date trees, hard water and that pipe wretch thinky....I'm good until next week. Have fun doing laundry!
I am with Jenn. It called picking your battles with your child.
Jenn, never be concerned with viewers comments on your boys. You are correct, you and Tim know your sons. Jackson will learn about winning and losing if and when he plays team sports. He just has to learn to be a gracious winner and loser. Let him know he is human and we all make mistakes in life. He just has to learn if he fails, not have a fit, rather realize the mistake and own up to it and improve to not make it again. From my view, you are both exceptional parents.
We have a toddler who’s the same age as Jackson (born in December). We’ve learned to choose your battles. And then if their feelings and emotions are still big reactions, divert the energy to something else. It works 3 out 5 times. I’ll gladly take those odds. You’re not alone, it’s rough at this age. ❤
You will notice Jen when you’re doing laundry when you’re having a bubble bath when you’re doing dishes, the soft water will make you have more bubbles than expected so be very careful when you’re doing your clothes. You don’t put to much soap.
Good luck. It’s amazing
He might be hearing it wrong because of his ears. He still needs his tubes. Y'all are doing great!
I think kids can beat themselves up if they don't get it perfect/right the first time. When he got the song lyrics wrong is a great way to use your personal experiences. How many of us have sang the wrong words to a song (for years sometimes) LOL. Learning to laugh about it.
I would play games with the kids and celebrate all of us. "Great game! That was so much fun. You did that move/play/card and almost got me."
I remember that song from when I was young. Instead of singing Do-Re-Mi-Fa-So-La-Ti, my brother would sing do-re-mi-fa-so-latida. Singing latida in a grand gesture and loving ending the song that way. Cracked us up every time :)
Being a nanny I call that choosing our battles sometimes it’s not worth it.
I definitely think it’s fine to coddle, there’s always a right time and place, and you know your kid. Choose your battles as they say! 😂 When it comes up organically it may you be great to give him an example of when you got a lyric wrong - like when a popular song comes on, and you remembered that you always thought it was one thing, but it turned out it was another, and you didn’t find out until much later, & that everyone does this at some point & it’s okay 🎶 🙂♥️ I mean there’s whole ‘threads’ dedicated to misheard lyrics after all! 😆
Idk if you will read this but my son has the same slide since he was 11 months. I taught him how to go down by turning around and sliding down like on his belly. That way it is safer for him to slide down without help
The original Italian is “sol” but the English version is “Soh”. Hence the homophone with “sew” as a sewing needle.
Always got the trusty gold club right near by😂
That's what I'd miss the most if I moved from Scotland; tap Highland spring water . Plus I used to always wonder why we sold large bottles of conditioner - as we only need a spot. The water helps your hair look better
soft water is something every floridian needs! our water is so hard with all that lime scale 😔😞
I drank out of the hose as a kid in the 70's. Lol! I love in Texas but Grand Prairie had awesome water. Lol
That new pool pump you could paint it yellow for the scream container from Monsters INC. Lol
I think if you are not honest with him and tell him it's okay to feel this way emotionally it happens to the best of us and even moms and dads can get things wrong too and explain how he learned something it wasn't as it seemed at first and hug him. I also agree doing it on camera would never okay.