It started with a park. On a sunny afternoon around a year ago, right next to the swings in our local play area, I encountered my first taste of “Ooh, isn’t she a bad mother”. And as much as I hate to admit it, it was me casting the judgments.

My two year old was playing with another little girl who can’t have been much older. As this little girl ran around with my toddler, I caught a flash of sickly pink and winced as the glitter reflected the harsh sunlight. The little girl was wearing nail varnish. Bright pink, sparkly nail varnish.

In my head, I berated the mother for trying to “pretty up” her little girl. Why would you do that to your child? I thought to myself. I judged that mum, who was minding her own business in a park with her toddler on a sunny day. Continue reading »