Is This Normal? Parenting Worries We All Google at 2 A.M.

It’s 2 a.m. and the house is quiet — except for the soft glow of your phone screen as you type into Google: “Why won’t my toddler eat vegetables?” or “Is it normal my child still wakes up at night?”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Parents everywhere share these middle-of-the-night worries. The truth is, childhood development is full of wide ranges of “normal,” and every child grows at their own pace. Still, those nagging questions can keep us awake.

At Building Bright Futures in Frankfort, IL, we want to take some of the mystery (and stress) out of these common concerns. Here’s a lighthearted but supportive look at the questions parents can’t help but Google at 2 a.m.—and why you can breathe a little easier.

1. “My child only eats mac and cheese. Is this normal?”

Yes, picky eating is very common among toddlers and preschoolers. At this age, children are exploring independence and may fixate on a few “safe” foods. The good news? Most kids outgrow this stage, especially when offered a variety of healthy options without pressure.

💡 Parent Tip: Keep introducing new foods in small portions alongside favorites. Sometimes it takes 10–15 tries before a child accepts something new.

2. “My toddler isn’t talking much yet. Should I worry?”

Speech development varies widely. Some kids chatter nonstop by age two, while others take longer to find their words. What matters most is whether your child is trying to communicate — pointing, babbling, or using gestures.

💡 Parent Tip: Read together daily and narrate what you’re doing. If concerns persist, a developmental screening (offered by organizations like BBF) can help put your mind at ease.

3. “Why does my child still wake up at night?”

If you’re still stumbling to your child’s room at 3 a.m., you’re not alone. Many children don’t sleep straight through until closer to age 3 or 4. Growth spurts, teething, or even vivid dreams can disrupt sleep.

💡 Parent Tip: Establish calming bedtime routines (bath, story, cuddle) and keep them consistent. Over time, sleep stretches usually improve.

4. “My preschooler throws tantrums in public. Is this a red flag?”

Nope. Tantrums are a healthy (though exhausting) part of development. Young kids don’t yet have the skills to regulate big emotions. Crying, flailing, or shouting are their ways of coping.

💡 Parent Tip: Stay calm, validate feelings (“I know you’re upset”), and redirect when possible. Consistency and patience go a long way.

5. “My child is still in diapers at age 3. Too late?”

Potty training is another milestone with wide variation. Some kids catch on early; others may not be ready until closer to age 4. Stressing about it only makes the process harder.

💡 Parent Tip: Look for readiness cues: staying dry longer, showing interest in the toilet, or discomfort in wet diapers. Celebrate small successes instead of focusing on a timeline.

6. “Why does my child line up toys or play the same game over and over?”

Repetition is how kids learn! Sorting, stacking, and repeating activities help children build mastery and make sense of the world. While certain patterns can sometimes flag developmental differences, in most cases it’s simply a sign of focus.

💡 Parent Tip: Join in and gently expand play — for example, turning that toy lineup into a pretend parade.

7. “Is my child’s growth chart okay? They’re smaller than others.”

Children come in all shapes and sizes. What matters is steady growth over time, not comparison to the neighbor’s child. Pediatricians track growth on charts to make sure progress stays consistent.

💡 Parent Tip: Trust your pediatrician, not playground chatter. If your child is healthy, eating, and active, chances are they’re on the right track.

8. “Why does my child sometimes ignore me?”

Sometimes they’re testing independence. Sometimes they’re just really into that block tower. Selective listening is common and usually not a cause for concern.

💡 Parent Tip: Get down to their level, make eye contact, and use simple directions. If hearing seems to be an issue, check with your pediatrician.

9. “My child isn’t as social as others. Is this normal?”

Every child’s temperament is different. Some love the spotlight; others are more reserved. Shyness or solo play doesn’t necessarily signal a problem.

💡 Parent Tip: Give your child opportunities for interaction without forcing it. Small playdates can feel less overwhelming than big group settings.

10. “Am I doing enough as a parent?”

This is the question behind all the questions. Parenting is hard, messy, and full of second-guessing. The fact that you care enough to worry at 2 a.m. means you’re doing just fine.

💡 Parent Tip: Give yourself grace. Perfection isn’t the goal—connection is.

Conclusion

Parenting is filled with “Is this normal?” moments. Most of the time, the answer is yes — or at least, yes within a wide range of typical development. And when you’re unsure, support is available.

At Building Bright Futures in Frankfort, we’re here to guide families through the ups, downs, and 2 a.m. Google searches of childhood. Together, we can replace late-night worry with confidence and community.