Maryland Mother of the Year: Parenting not from perfection but potential

May 10, 2026 - 19:20

Delores Britt-Millhouse never set out to win a statewide award for parenting. In fact, she had no idea the Maryland Mother of the Year program even existed until she received a nomination. By January, she had not only accepted the nomination but had also been named the 2024 honoree.

Britt-Millhouse, a mother of four, says her approach to parenting is rooted in a simple philosophy: stop chasing perfection and start nurturing potential. She believes that many parents get caught up in the idea of having a perfect household or raising flawless children, which often leads to stress and disappointment. Instead, she focuses on what each of her children can become, encouraging them to grow at their own pace.

The award came as a surprise. Britt-Millhouse was nominated by a family friend who had watched her navigate the challenges of raising a large family while also working and volunteering in the community. The selection committee was drawn to her message of resilience and her refusal to compare her children to others.

"Parenting is not about having all the answers," Britt-Millhouse said in a recent interview. "It is about showing up, being present, and helping your child see the good in themselves, even when they make mistakes."

She now plans to use the platform to speak with other parents about letting go of guilt and embracing the messy, unpredictable journey of raising kids. Her advice is simple: focus on the potential in front of you, not the picture-perfect image in your head.