Parenting is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and constant learning. For content creator and makeup artist Michelle Ngoje, who is married to her supportive husband Ian, parenting is an ongoing process of growth and discovery. Together, the couple shares their experiences as parents to four children, offering valuable insights into the ups and downs of raising a family.
Michelle, who is also the sister of famous content creator Diana Marua, describes herself as an artist passionate about beauty and self-expression through makeup. However, alongside her professional career, she has embraced the role of a mother, which she recognizes as one of the most demanding but rewarding parts of her life.
In a recent video on her YouTube channel, Michelle and Ian opened up about their experiences as parents, offering practical advice and reflections on what they’ve learned along the way. Ian, in particular, emphasized the notion that every child is unique and requires an individualized approach to parenting.
“I’ve got twins, who are 8 years old. So, when you have twins, it’s like you’re parenting for 16 years in 8 years,” Ian explained. His insight into the different dynamics of parenting twins versus single children highlights the complexities of raising multiple children at once. While this approach might seem daunting, Ian’s experience reflects the fact that parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all process; it’s about adapting to each child’s personality and needs.
Michelle also shared her own perspective, admitting that parenting is a continuous learning process. “You never stop learning from families and friends,” she said, recalling an instance where a family member gently corrected her parenting approach toward one of her children. This moment of realization helped Michelle understand that even as an experienced parent, there’s always room for growth. It’s important to be open to feedback from others who may have a different perspective on parenting.
One of the most profound pieces of advice shared by the couple centered around allowing children to experience and express their emotions. Ian and Michelle emphasized the importance of giving kids the space to navigate their feelings and emotions, especially as they grow and encounter new challenges. “Allow them to pass through that stage of life because they have never been there before,” Michelle shared, adding that this is crucial for their emotional development. Ian expanded on this idea, particularly with regards to raising boys, noting that parents should create a healthy environment where boys feel comfortable expressing their emotions rather than suppressing them. “Don’t raise boys by telling them not to cry,” he stated. “Raise them to be healthy versions of themselves.”
This message speaks to a larger societal issue, where boys are often conditioned to hide their feelings or view emotional expression as a sign of weakness. Ian’s approach challenges that mindset and encourages a more open and nurturing upbringing.
Another important point raised by the couple was the need for patience and consistency in parenting. Ian explained that there are both good and bad days in parenting, and it’s crucial to remain patient. “You have to keep teaching and repeating things to your kids until they understand,” Ian added. This patience is key, especially when dealing with younger children who are still learning about boundaries, behavior, and life lessons.
Michelle also highlighted the importance of age-appropriate responses when children ask questions. As they grow, kids become more curious and begin to ask deeper, more complex questions. According to Michelle, it’s essential to provide answers that are suitable for their developmental stage, ensuring they receive the information they need while protecting their innocence.
Ultimately, Michelle and Ian’s parenting advice underscores the need for adaptability, patience, and emotional awareness. Their experiences remind parents that there’s no perfect way to raise a child, but by being open to learning, offering emotional support, and maintaining a sense of consistency, parents can help nurture their children into healthy, happy individuals. Raising a family may be full of challenges, but with the right mindset, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience.
