Parenting is not just a job, it’s a responsibility that comes with countless superstitions and myths. As a new parent, you may have heard some of these and even followed some without questioning their validity. But are they really helpful or just adding up to your stress level? Let’s have a closer look at some of the most popular parenting superstitions that will make you question your sanity.

1. Breaking a Mirror is Bad Luck 🪞

If you’re a believer in this superstition, you may think that breaking a mirror will bring seven years of bad luck to your child. However, there is no scientific or logical reason behind this belief. So, don’t worry, your child won’t suffer because of a shattered mirror.

A shattered mirror on the floor.

2. Stepping on a Crack will Break Your Mother’s Back 👵

This superstition is so famous that it’s been a part of nursery rhymes and popular culture for ages. But unless your mother has an existing back condition, stepping on a crack won’t break her back. So, don’t feel guilty if you ever accidentally step on a crack while walking with your child.

A person stepping on a crack on a sidewalk.

3. Bad Things Happen in Threes 👎

This superstition suggests that if two bad things happen, a third is bound to follow. However, there’s no scientific basis for this belief. Life can be unpredictable, and good and bad events can happen randomly. It’s best not to expect or fear a third bad thing just because of this superstition.

Three cloud figures representing the belief of bad things happening in threes.

4. Knocking on Wood Prevents Bad Luck 🪵

Many people believe that knocking on wood can prevent bad luck or jinxes. However, this superstition originated from the European pagan culture, where people believed that spirits lived in trees and knocking on them would release the spirits to help them. So, unless you believe in tree spirits, there’s really no need to knock on wood.

A person knocking on a wooden table.

5. Breaking a Wishbone Grants Wishes 🍖

The family dinner tradition of breaking the turkey’s wishbone with a partner and making a wish is a familiar superstition to many. However, there’s no evidence that breaking a wishbone grants any wishes. It’s merely a fun activity that you can enjoy with your family.

A wishbone broken into two halves after a family dinner.

6. Friday the 13th is Unlucky 🗓️

Many people avoid scheduling important events on Friday the 13th due to its unlucky reputation. But it’s just a superstition, and there’s no evidence to prove that Friday the 13th is any more unlucky than any other day.

A calendar showing Friday the 13th.

7. Hanging a Horseshoe Brings Good Luck 🐴

The horseshoe superstition has been around for centuries, and some people believe that hanging a horseshoe above the door brings good luck. This belief originated from the ancient Greeks, who associated horseshoes with the crescent moon, a symbol of fertility and good fortune. However, there’s no concrete evidence to back up this belief.

A horseshoe hanging on a door nail.

8. The Stork Brings Babies 🐦

This superstition is probably one that you believed in as a child. In many cultures, including Western societies, the stork is associated with delivering babies. While it’s a cute story to tell your children, the stork has no involvement in the process of making and delivering babies. That’s all biology.

A stork carrying a bundle with a baby inside.

9. Carrots Improve Vision 🥕

Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A, which is beneficial for maintaining good eyesight. However, eating excessive amounts of carrots won’t significantly improve your child’s vision beyond what a healthy diet can provide. So, while carrots are good for overall health, they won’t give your child superhero-like eyesight.

A bowl of carrots on a table.

10. A Full Moon Affects Behavior 🌕

This is a popular belief that links the full moon to increased aggression, sleep disturbances, and other behavioral changes. However, studies have shown that there is no scientific evidence to support this belief. So, when your child acts up during a full moon, it’s most likely a coincidence.

A full moon in the night sky.

In conclusion, superstitions can be fun and entertaining, but it’s important not to take them too seriously. Keep in mind that there’s no scientific evidence to support many of these beliefs. As a parent, it’s essential to rely on facts and scientific research to make the best decisions for your child’s well-being.

A cartoon illustration of a parent with their child, surrounded by various superstitions.